Bohemia Village Voice

Mrs Jo Hunter writes (Aug 2010)

Has anyone seen my husband’s missing sock? I bought him five pairs of black ones at Christmas, all with different coloured heels. One half of the purple-heeled pair [picture] has gone missing: I’ve searched the washing basket, washing machine and dryer. I reckon it’s escaped and is at large somewhere in Bohemia. Help! Mrs Jo Hunter, St Peter’s Road, Bohemia.

Missing sock

Vic Chalcraft writes (Voice 77, Dec 2010)

I am sure I know the answer to Mrs Hunter’s missing sock [Voice 76 ‘Letters’, Aug 2010]. Eric Hardwick, M.B.E. and I were out looking for young birds when we sighted  what we thought was a purple-heeled sock (Sockus stinkus). Eric, a true preserver of wildlife, shot it and it is now preserved in pickling vinegar in a jar on his mantelpiece, though I am not too sure of his ‘Book of Birds’ – has he any phone numbers to spare? Vic Chalcraft, Aldborough Road, Bohemia.

Dear Vic, Seeing as you are so interested in birds, I might draw your attention to the wonderful exhibition currently showing at our very own museum on Bohemia Road. Here you can see a fabulous display of rare birds – allbethem stuffed – and marvel at the work of thirteen artists that have been inspired by one of the greatest scandals to hit the world of ornithology ever! – Ed.

Hastings Rarities by Scott Garrett