Pikehand of the year Nominations 2004

Neil ---- Noctadec Piking

Planning ahead and colour judgement are not strong points for Neil. There is a mountain of evidence as proof. The mastery of things done in the dark however was acknowledged by all. Now even that is flawed. So how does forward planning, colour judgement and darkness link Neil's nomination? Anxious but late in the day the long overdue task of outdoor painting began. The paint and brush were ready and waiting. Well into the task with darkness rapidly descending the paint was exhausted but one fence panel was unfinished. Undeterred Neil sped to the superstore and bought another can of paint. Upon return dusk had turned to blackout. The brilliance of the, "Master of Darkness," radiated from his brain. The job was finished, laboriously, be torch light. Proud and self satisfied and not at all concerned about the weather because the paint was especially weather proof, Neil retired. Early next morning peering through the bedroom curtains to admire his handy work the last panel of the fence was a different shade of green.

Neil ---- Repeat Piking

Neil has a knack of repetition and gets nominated again. The same problem but different time place and circumstances. He was out on business in his new car. It was a state of the art, remote controlled all singing and dancing vehicle and he was very pleased with it. It was a very hot day so he left his coat locked inside the car. That evening he had an appointment some distance away. Business finished late but there was just enough time to get to the evening appointment. However sunshine had given way to rain. He dashed across the car park clicking the remote locking as he ran. To no avail the car remained locked. The remote lock actuator had an emergency flip out manual key so he tried using that. Still the car remained locked. Thoroughly soaked he retrieved his mobile phone and rang the AA for help. Some two hours later they turned up and got him into the car and on the road at last. He was cold, wet, and hungry, missed his appointment and relieved of £140.00 for AA membership.