From LOF himself

In November 1993 Roy (Sexist) and I met at the Plough to discuss whether we should start a local Hash. Roy’s wife (Phyllis) was also present.  It was decided that we should give it a try and Roy raised the issue of women members, i.e., should we include them.  I said no, but after a discussion I was outvoted 2.1.  So all you ladies who currently enjoy the pleasures of H4, you owe it all to Phyllis! I have to admit that the Hash might not have survived for 25 years if it had been restricted to males. 

 The background to all this is that both Roy and I hashed in Cyprus in the 80s.  This was with Episkopi H3 which was a military hash/ men only and was also elitist, in that it was restricted to Officers and civilians of Officer status. I worked for the MoD and Roy worked for the Property Services Agency (PSA). On my return to UK I hashed for 6 years with the Wilton Hash, which was also based on a military base. This was also a male only set-up, but strangely we had a female midwife.  This was before the expression ‘gender fluid’ came into use.

Episkopi H3 was a competitive event with Teachers and Civil Servants striving to beat the military members.  Hashes were held in the hottest part of the day (early afternoon).  The usual duration was about 45 minutes.  Beer was consumed in large quantities after the run during which time the ‘On President (GM) would give a crit on his opinion of the trail and the Hares.  This would be traditionally scathing and uncomplimentary whatever the rank/grade of those concerned.  No singing or down-downs were involved.    Roy and I served as Joint Maters for a year or so.  I was Hash Words and Roy was Hash-Cash. 

We were somewhat bemused when people turned up with a background of Hashing in foreign climes and introduced us to the après-hash circle complete with silly songs, down-downs and punishments for misdemeanours allegedly committed during the run.  I imagined that our founders at KL would be spinning in their tropical graves. However hashing is always a flexible activity and we have managed to survive pretty well.  To a large extent this has been due to the enthusiasm of our Colonial friends, namely Bush Squatter and Cliff Banger and also to our long-serving GM in the shape of Jobsworth. 

On the occasion of our 25th anniversary I was somewhat overwhelmed by the appreciation shown on my ‘retirement’  and the gifts I was given, so thanks again to everyone  involved   and On On to the next 25 years.