Kennet Valley Hash

If you wanted to bring someone new along to a Hash, you could not have chosen a better introduction to the delights of Hashing than last Sunday morning. The weather was excellent with bright blue skies, a good mixture of runners and walkers and, to top it all, an excellent well- organised route through superb countryside. There is no need for an introduction to the Horseshoe; it’s a pub we have used on numerous occasions, and there is a good reason for this – it’s easy to get to, has ample packing, is friendly and has a good tipple available.

The introduction given by Jeremy must rate as one of the longest and most detailed in the history of Hashing. We eventually discovered that sailor Mike had texted that he would be arriving late, so accommodating Jeremy stalled, and stalled some more and by the time he arrived at the end we had forgotten how he started. It was with some relief, equally I assume for Jeremy as well as us, that Mike arrived, as I m sure even the enterprising Jeremy was running out of options.

The run took us away from the village across the River Kennet, up to the old railway track across to the cricket ground and then entering the wooded area of Savernake Forest. Finally, (it did seem a long way) we crossed the A4 near the hospital, circled back through the woods and re-crossed the Kennet at the eastern end of Mildenhall, returning to the pub from over the fields.
Back at the Horseshoe, we had just started to rearrange the furniture in the pub, when we made the mistake of asking if the television could be turned off. The landlord indicated that he had a bet on the outcome of the Man United/Man City football match, so suggested we might remove ourselves to the back room, which was unfortunately smaller and not quite so comfortable.
Maurice opened the G.O.M. review by thanking Jeremy for such a good, well organised Hash- up to his usual high standards. He also presented to Keith, the prize for the best Hash of 2011.
Discussion then moved on to having a Hash evening meal to celebrate the club completing over 2000 miles of running. An agreement was made to fix the date for 17th March. Mike said he would take over the organising of the numbers and the location.

Another topic raised was a Hash weekend away, either in Ireland, Europe or the UK. Difficulties were considered regarding the amount of planning required to do a Hash outside England. It was by a majority agreement that a UK Hash was preferred and the various options put forward include The Forest of Dean, Isle of Wight, Studland or the Ironbridge/Coalbrookdale area in Shropshire. Please forward any ideas for weekend away to Maurice.

Thanks again to Jeremy for such an enjoyable Hash-this could be a strong contender for the best Hash of 2012 award!!