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After seeing this DVD advertised I placed an order the same day. I must say it was excellent service as the DVD arrived two days later from Truffle Pig Films. At 90 minutes long it was planned into an evening’s viewing the following day. I sat down with a whisky in hand and waited to see what my £ 25 had bought. I must say I was not disappointed.
The story is told by Jim Hardy, the last family member at the helm of the company, and charts its history. With contributions from past employees and some of the finest independent tackle makers this country has to offer in the form of Chris Lythe Centerpins and Edward Barder Rod Company. Showing them at work on something they have a real passion for. Just as the Hardy family did.
The documentary gives an insight into the way life was from the late 1800’s, the working conditions and the way workers were treated. But every worker that was talked to said they were the best of times.
There are some wonderful stories told throughout the documentary. One of my favourites was how Richard Walker made a big mistake regarding the use of carbon fibre in the manufacture of rods.
Hardys, with Richard Walker, held the patent for the use of carbon fibre in the building of rods. The only problem was that Richard Walker insisted that it was written in that a maximum of 25% carbon could be used as any more would make the rod too stiff. As we all know most modern rods are nearly 100% carbon, so no royalties can be collected.
It’s a shame the ending tells the story of where the company is at today. They now only make around 200 split cane rods in a year. I feel that the words of the current MD, that if they found they could no longer make these, then it would be no great loss. I disagree, as while modern companies must play the scale game to survive, losing that passion and soul that made the company would i think be a real shame.
The filmmakers Andy Heathcote and Heike Bachelier have created an excellent documentary and the big companies could learn a thing from these two independent film makers. They have interspersed the old and new beautifully.
This DVD will appeal to all anglers who have a passion for angling and I think will be a future classic. I therefore give it 10 out of 10. Rating: 10/10 |
