Tail of the storm...

Monday 28th October
Haytor Down CP
There are so many reasons why anyone should not have come to this first ‘winter’ run; potential flooding, hurricane forecasts, an obscure car park, a touch of flu that’s been going around, bruised heels, holidays in warmer climes etc. etc. Therefore it was a pleasant surprise to join a select band of hardy adventurers on the windy side of Dartmoor west of Bovey Tracey. The car parking was spacious and only Teapot was out of his car when I arrived. Everyone else huddled in the warmth of their vehicles, waiting until the last possible moment to disembark. The moor was dark, the skies clear and starry, a light drizzly rain whipped across the exposed hillside and cows sheltered in the lee of any available hedge and bank. Our circle took place in the lee of Wide Receivers van. Our hare Poacher was, unusually, dressed in thick trousers and hooded anorak as he had been laying the trail since 4pm and was already feeling the effects of the cold. He confessed to hiding the flour marks so animals wouldn’t eat them. This seemed a little unfortunate for the conditions and the location of the run but proved insignificant as everyone managed to complete the course without injury or loss. In fact several hashers commented on the quality of the marking. We were promised a short trail which was greeted with unanimous approval. My own venture was probably shorter than most and therefore I have little to contribute regarding the route, except to repeat the compliments to Poacher for braving the conditions and giving his time. For turning up on such a wintry evening and as we were so few it seems only fair that they should all get a mention. The pack was as follows:- Archangel, Manpig, Teapot, Poacher, Wide Receiver, Fiddler, Soapy, Melon Picker, Wigwam, Ben(a virgin), Rambo, Doris, Fiddlers friend(another virgin) and Paraprick.
The pub food was delicious and we nearly all fitted around one table. Very cosy.
On On to next weeks firework fiesta at Tinkley Bottom. Bring a firework!!