SteveB

I've got two saws and a short hedgetrimmer, all Husky and all in the 536 range, which are the most powerful and I'm pleased with them all. The hedgetrimmer has no problems with many of the larger bits of hedge which the 2-stroke used to struggle over. My whinge at the moment though is that I'm trying to get the pole hedgetrimmer and the strimmer but the delivery dates to the dealers from Husqvarna just seem to be getting further away each time I've asked what's happening. The latest estimate is some time in October, though I ordered both at the beginning of August. Surprising as Husqvarna has such a good reputation.

Hang on ... maybe not! :-)

Have I missed it this year? Dammit ... :-(

That includes import charges

You could always get a 562xp from the States - only £416 plus about £25 p&p ... New HUSQVARNA 562XP Chainsaw 20" Bar & Chain Authorized Crown Dealer | eBay

Great result for the amount raised ... and delighted with my own prize :-) I'd forgotten all about the raffle till I found UPS had delivered it!

Thanks for your thoughts, folks. It's given me some more to think about. Not sure about a virtual secretary though ... sounds a bit modern for this old boy :-)

Thinking of taking on a secretary to handle the phone, take messages, sort out advertising, wages, take details of jobs and so on - just a small crew, not a huge business. I'm wondering how much would be a fair daily/weekly wage for such work? I've tried leaving my dog to deal with it and she's OK with dealing with salesmen but stuff all else ... If it's not breaking any confidences, what would you pay (a rough figure would be fine of course) such a person? Thanks

A friend of mine is in Team Rubicon, a US volunteer organisation made up mostly of former US Marines, who deploy to disaster areas. She (yes, they have ladies too) has mentioned in the past that people who can use chainsaws and can think and act without having to be overseen (and can operate out of tents/vehicles/whatever is available) are always needed.

I'm the same as KGBFINGAR - one 10mg Omeprazole each morning and no problem all day; just have to remember to take it or I start getting a bit windy/heartburn later. Had it for about the same time too.

I've thought of using Aspen, though I have used white spirit, turps substitute or Screwfix industrial wipes and they all work. Not all together. The wipes from B&Q are far too harsh for my delicate skin.

Yeah, the problem of hearing your phone while using a saw is a bit of a drawback ...

Though, for those who prefer Husqvarna ... Husqvarna Download Ringtones

Great name for a website ... :-)

I hadn't - thanks for the suggestion, Ross!

Just been reading about the young lady who has given up work because she’s too pretty and has to fight off advances from men and jealousy from women (see the Mail and the Mirror online – links below). I’d like to assure anyone who considers employing me as a ground worker that I’m not too pretty and I’ve never fought off an advance in my life. I can’t afford to be that choosy. I’m also not a woman – sorry if I gave the wrong impression . But to get down to the real reason for this post – I’m a mature, enthusiastic, reliable worker, looking for occasional work or a permanent job. I have my own saws and equipment, PPE, and would provide my own fuel. I have CS30, 31 and 32, and LANTRA strimmer/brushcutter and pedestrian lawnmower. Emergency first aid at work, clean driving licence (Groups B, BE, C1, C1E, D1, D1E). I live in the Huntingdon area of Cambridgeshire but I could travel within reason. I think I’m a good team worker. I want to get more experience but I won’t get any sitting on my butt looking for work online. If anyone in the area needs a hand or two from time to time, please PM me or call/text on 07890-485865. Thanks for reading - Steve By the way; if you’re wondering what I’m talking about, here are the links to the articles: I'm TOO pretty to work: Graduate says her good looks means she's harassed and bullied - Mirror Online The woman who claims she is too pretty to take a job: Graduate 'hounded by sex pests and jealous females' | Mail Online

Many congratulations to you all!

Depends on the size of the helicopter they plan to land there so the HLS owner should be able to tell you ... to my knowledge there's no standard size of site.