The testing of Eric Olthwaite

[ploughman]

I found last weeks ripping yarn 'The testing of Eric Olthwaite' rather offensive to those of us who appreciate a really well made spade. I myself have a Spear & Jackson Neverbend No 2 which has cut many a sod in its 90 year life. The programme suggested that Eric was a 'boring little tit' just because he liked weather forecasting and garden implements. What spades have you got?

[logman]

A fine selection of bill hooks including a wilkinson sword!

[gary baldy]

Having Irish heritage i favour the Spear & Jackson Neverbend Professional Irish Garden Spade 36" T Handle.

[ploughman]

Yes Gary, that sounds like a superlative implement. I feel I have found kindred spirit at last! What are your views on the S&P Neverbend Stainless Steel Border Spade (1161BS)?

All the range have mirror polished stainless steel blades and tines for minimal soil adhesion. Spades and forks have extra long sockets for added strength and weatherproof hardwood shafts (70cm) with 'supergrip' hilt. With 10 year guarantee. Or perhaps the Neverbend Treaded Digging Spade (1150TD) would be more suitable for the Irish sod. Let me know!!!

[gary baldy]

I'm a bit of a traditionalist and this new pro active range with its enlarged forward tilting handle - with side grips for two handed use in hard ground and Bi-material handle for a positive grip sounds a bit fancy for me.

I normally go for a good solid grafter and much prefer a Crutch 'T' handle which is fixed with waterproof adhesive and wooden peg to with stand 47m* torque.

For a treat i might go for a nice Newcastle Draining
Available in 14" or 16". I would say that it is traditionally recognised as the finest draining tool available. The long narrow blade makes it perfect for extending trenches in terms of width and particularly depth. Lugs provide greater foot hold.
Lovely!

[ploughman]

Mmmmmmm yes Gary, that sound like the Ace of Spades and no mistake! But for no nonsense hands on digging, the Bulldog Premier spade, a Hard-wearing Digging Spade with 28 lacquered ash, YD handle, of heat-treated, solid forged construction, is available at �24.99 from Screwfix. Hard to beat in the cut and thrust world of the digger, dont you think?.

[SteveD]

Maybe you should submit your question here:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/shows/wright/elvis.shtml

[BlackMale]

Hi Ploughman, Glad to here that your spade is going well after 90 years. My spade is only in his mid 30`s so looks like many years of enjoyment to come. Yes, a really well made spade is indeed a joy for using in sodomy, cutting a sod has never been better since I got Jackson.