PRACTICE MEET, BOARSHURST, DECEMBER 2024

Date: 8th December 2024

Location: Boarshurst

Conditions: Cold and showery

The Lancashire branch ‘ultras’ braved storm Darragh this weekend to build the starting lifts of a perfectly laid T-junction and a beautiful cheek end at the northern end of the Boarshurst site for the early December practice meet on Sunday 8th.

Despite the mental exhaustion of the ‘Play your cards right’ quiz (thanks Pete) there were few casualties from the branch Xmas soirée on Friday night, with a full complement of courageous souls ready to face the elements for another PM of walling fun.

The predicted squall must have seen the determined faces of the grizzled Lancashire branch regulars and decided to steer well clear, giving the troops a cool but calm morning to make great headway on two new sections of wall, along with some topping experience for newer members on a previously advanced section. The weather held until midday, when respite was provided in the site greenhouse, and the traditional half-time oranges were seasonally replaced with mince pies and chocolate cake (thanks Bev), which gave renewed energy and impetus.

The afternoon session was admittedly a struggle, with drizzle increasing and mud deepening,
but the stoic seventeen persevered until the winter skies began to darken. By close of play the stone stockpiles were decimated and the wallers stood victorious with at least 10m of wall up to knee height despite the difficult terrain and conditions.

Stone was laid, packing was packed, cake was ate and giggles were had. I can’t speak for Storm Darragh, but the Lancashire branch certainly scares the hell outta me!