time to call it a day…

[TF_Man of Kent]

for the Scone Zone, I’m afraid.

Trotting out stuff that has been circulating the internet for a couple of years without making much of an effort to even change it, just isn’t good enough to justify being paid for the article and indicates that the humorous stories have been exhausted.

It’s been going down hill for a long time now, and unless you are part of an “in crowd”, it just isn’t funny any more.

I’ve no personal axe to grind against Scone here, but can’t se the point in the “Zone’s” inclusion any more unless it will be taken over by a fresh source of inspiration.

Sorry.

[TF_Man of Kent]

Blimey. Not a single wrap around from >160 hits, but more interesting, nobody seems to disagree!

[TF_shep2]

i just wish hed start making floats again cos nobody on here will sell me theirs LOL / ALL the mags have articles repeated year after year bloodworm in winter carp in summer ect they all get repetetive imo but i still continue to buy them doh~sick

[TF_SteveMay]

Cheap shot at someone,
Maybe you could show us some of your contributions in Matchfishing?

[TF_fish_silver]

Steve; Man of Kent is not hidding his name. just click on his username ~think
As for said Scone Zone etc, I can’t comment because I don’t buy the mag anymore.

[TF_SteveMay]

Isn’t editing great.

[TF_NW Cut Angler]

Hard to say, I rarely read Scone Zone or Snide Rumours. I thought Syd Huggins got repetitive. The funniest I have seen is the guy who wrote up for the cup. Everything becomes repetitive I guess and Scone is an amateur so what does that say about the professionals.

[TF_gotgaz]

well i enjoy reading it gives a bit of humor to the mag if you dont like it dont read the back page simple~naughty

[TF_bremesParticipant]

I no longer read the mag(s)now,for no other reason than cutbacks on my spending,when i did read it i found the column entertaining,as mentioned previously i enjoyed “up for the cup”,the greatest was without doubt the late great Boris’s column in the mail,all in my opinion of course.

[Anonymous]

snide rumours and dirty lies was different class to anything since…….

[TF_Man of Kent]

SteveMay. My comments aren’t intended to be a cheap shot at anyone and I have nothing to hide, Fish Silver.

I also agree with Gotgaz in that if you don’t like it, don’t read it. However, I would argue that the team who have the responsibility for assembling the content of the mag should be informed if there are things that need to be changed.

Dave Harrell asked a while back for some guidance in what we’d like to see covered and I forwarded my ideas and comments at that time. In some cases these seem to have been accepted and articles are now being enjoyed by many that may have taken my suggestions into account. I don’t suppose my ideas were unique by any stretch of the imagination and plenty of others may have requested the same or similar things. Nevertheless, I count that as a contribution the match Fishing, Steve.

My point remains that like most things in life, the column has a finite life expectancy. I believe it has run its course and is past it’s shelf life and needs to be changed or dropped. The lack of defence seems to confirm my belief.

On the whole I think the Mag has made some excellent strides since Dave took over as Editor and long may it continue to do so. In order to continue to sell the Mag the Team should be open to suggestions and requests. I look forward to receiving my copy but it’s important to understand where our money is spent, and I’m afraid this column no longer represents value for money.

[TF_Gavin]

I have to say I agree with Man of Kent!

[TF_fish_silver]

@Man of Kent wrote:

SteveMay. My comments aren’t intended to be a cheap shot at anyone and I have nothing to hide, Fish Silver.

~naughty ~naughty
M.O.K
What are you on about I was deffending you, by saying you wern’t hidding your name. ~think

[TF_SteveMay]

M.o.K I disagree, but like you don’t say…It’s only your opinion.

M.o.K. and GavinG…Is it a Cambridge thing? 🙂

[TF_gotgaz]

m o k what you have to think about is for every two people that dont like it theres ten that do you say that a lack of defence supports your claim but i cant see a lot of support for your claim either so unless dave gets 5000 readers moaning about it why should he get rid of it

[TF_wightangler]

happen to think Scone zone is wry
masterpiece of observational humour and spot on– i actually have re-read a few ones – like the ‘match-brekkie’ and have to say this month’s ‘educating rita’ have made more laugh more than just first time.
He’s also self-deprecting and one of the lads and does’nt belittle or patronize .
Best humourous writer of match-fishing since Mike Winney, only the semi-humour of Keith Austin comes close,imo,and some more well known anglers attempt at humour make me actually angry.
Well done Sconee and long may your column continue.

[TF_Money4nothing]

@Man of Kent wrote:

for the Scone Zone, I’m afraid.

Trotting out stuff that has been circulating the internet for a couple of years without making much of an effort to even change it, just isn’t good enough to justify being paid for the article and indicates that the humorous stories have been exhausted.

It’s been going down hill for a long time now, and unless you are part of an “in crowd”, it just isn’t funny any more.

I’ve no personal axe to grind against Scone here, but can’t se the point in the “Zone’s” inclusion any more unless it will be taken over by a fresh source of inspiration.

Sorry.

Yes mate, I agree 100%.
It does sometimes seem like the aricle is aimed at an ‘in crowd’ as you say. And no doubt whatever happened in the article was funny if you were there & if you were one of the gang but doesn’t very often make me laugh.
I do quite like the new Stan Piecha page & the new qick fire ’15 minute’ interview.

[TF_tongey]

I rather enjoyed his article to be honest, i read it during my lunch at work an it put a smile on my face during a rough day.

Carry on Scone, if you put a smile on just one perons face its got to be worth it.

Karl.

[TF_DAT]

Think it was mike winney who did up for the cup,as for scone zone,well have tried re-reading a few and just dont get him.Time for something new,why not give mtb,pikey or one of the other bloggers a go.

[TF_caster robParticipant]

I’ve no idea what Scone Zone’s about but mention of Mike Winney’s “Up For T’ Cup” made me smile.

Must have been written at least twenty years ago, which goes to prove what a unique piece of angling journalism it was that I can instantly recall it.

Sammy the squatt, Mayor of Rochdale, Ray Mumford’s Southern Select, absolutely priceless.

[TF_NW Cut Angler]

@caster rob wrote:

I’ve no idea what Scone Zone’s about but mention of Mike Winney’s “Up For T’ Cup” made me smile.

Must have been written at least twenty years ago, which goes to prove what a unique piece of angling journalism it was that I can instantly recall it.

Sammy the squatt, Mayor of Rochdale, Ray Mumford’s Southern Select, absolutely priceless.

I guess it is a refletion of the quality Rob. As you alude it was brilliant writing.

Why does Scone no longer post on here? TF was the site that made his name and got him lots of opportunities.

[TF_Billy no FishParticipant]

NWCA, things change and people move on. Asking Scone would be the easiest way to get an answer.

Hello Rob (of the Caster variety), are you well?

[TF_billy the squidParticipant]

still like the mag, but i think it needs the w raison thinkin out loud column back, that was always the best bit for me..

[molehill]

its all about havin the confidence to stick with what you no.trying different things is what keeps fishing and things in general interesting.

[molehill]

and yess willl raisons articles are very honest.
lets hear more!!

[Redfin]

he trys to write but like his fishing he ent very good at it what has he ever done in the fishing world?

[TF_DAT]

Thinking about,it a lot of the older writers were writing about the feel of a match rather than how to catch fish.Wading on,love stories,Boris’ column in anglers mail were not too heavy on “place two number 10s 3inches from the hook” and the guys writing them seemed to have as many bad days as what i do.But Boris writing about catching two gudgeon from his latest parrot cage was a cracking read all the same.

[TF_NW Cut Angler]

Boris sold the AM on his own each week. I think what he did better than anybody was capture the spirit of match fishing and week after week we got to know the characters he encountered better and better.

[TF_justin case]

All a bit harsh in my opinion,

I think Scone is quite humorous not as funny as Frank Barlow who in my opinion was the king of angling humour but it reminds of a long time back when Cliff Hunt used to write the column “Life at the Bottom”, The average angler going fishing and having a good crack, what on earth can be wrong with that its something a lot of us can relate too.

You can’t please everyone its impossible just out of interest who would you like to see fill that slot ?

[TF_NW Cut Angler]

Nobody personally Justin. I think those 2 pages of MF are a waste. Add another article instead.

[TF_MarkT]

@NW Cut Angler wrote:

Nobody personally Justin. I think those 2 pages of MF are a waste. Add another article instead.

Two pages? He only gets half a page and i don’t think thats that bad tbh.

[TF_NW Cut Angler]

@trav849 wrote:

@NW Cut Angler wrote:

Nobody personally Justin. I think those 2 pages of MF are a waste. Add another article instead.

Two pages? He only gets half a page and i don’t think thats that bad tbh.

I meant Snide Rumours too trav. Not even sure Scone gets half a page.

[TF_MarkT]

Yeah i agree mate the “silly stuff” is pretty crap that page could defiantly be used for something else but don’t mind the scone zone.

[TF_nicky the bricky]

I for one like a bit of humour(alongside all the articles and advertisements).It’s good to see the funny side of things for a change, rather than all the information overload.Whether it’s Scone or A.N.Other writing,a smile is what’s needed now and again.There are enough serious articles to go at,a third of a page amongst 2 in total(IMHO) is a small price to pay for a giggle.Complaints about things being written for a clique clientel are probably correct in a way,BUT,explanations are generally given to elaborate things(for those not in said clique clientel).Scone will no doubt say,WTF,water off a ducks back I should think.Write something yourself MOK,send it in and see if you get the gig…..

[TF_bremesParticipant]

@justin case wrote:

All a bit harsh in my opinion,

I think Scone is quite humorous not as funny as Frank Barlow who in my opinion was the king of angling humour but it reminds of a long time back when Cliff Hunt used to write the column “Life at the Bottom”, The average angler going fishing and having a good crack, what on earth can be wrong with that its something a lot of us can relate too.

You can’t please everyone its impossible just out of interest who would you like to see fill that slot ?

Totally agree with every word~clap

[TF_NW Cut Angler]

I guess it depends why you buy the magazine. My understanding is that the majority of readers buy such magazines for the instructional / educational element. I remember David Hall saying as much when magazines like IYCF were introduced and that was a long time ago.

[TF_Simon R]

@caster rob wrote:

I’ve no idea what Scone Zone’s about but mention of Mike Winney’s “Up For T’ Cup” made me smile.

Must have been written at least twenty years ago,

Try over thirty years – I’m just reading the October 1978 edition of Coarse Fisherman (Dorking v Notts Fed)

Whatever did happen to Cliff Hunt?

[TF_scarf]

Another vote for Scone Zone and Silly Stuff from me.
Not every line he writes makes me p*ss myself, but even the incomparable Spike Milligan fell flat sometimes. Most jokes posted on here aren’t original, but most still make me chuckle.

[TF_unlucky19]

what do you want instead more adverts from ultimate angling crap or what

[TF_justin case]

@Simon R wrote:

Whatever did happen to Cliff Hunt?

I heard Cliff now spends he free time painting and he is apparently very good. he doesnt go fishing anymore

[TF_MICK THE BOOKIE]

I think like most,that humour plays a big part in any sport,but in angling,and especially Matchfishing its paramount imo.
Scones article is just perfect for the end of the Mag,like many before him,he has the knowledge and wit to put a smile on our faces,and to remind us all of our own funny days on the banks.When and if he does call it a day,i for one will be very sad.But someone else will be on hand to fill his shoes,and to bring a little laughter into our sport.

And it was great to see our old mate Billy(tf)post on this thread….Just goes to show the “old boys” still look in,even if it is undercover(guest)…Hope you and yours are well Billy and the tip is still flying round.~clap ~clap ~clap ~clap ~clap

[TF_Fordy]

Just because you know Sconee’s stories doesn’t mean everyone does.

If you’ve not a fan, turn the page! Simple really.

I think the silly stuff pages raise a smile and have a place. But if people are getting fed up with the ramblings of the Scone, maybe he should just find some new material?

[TF_Man of Kent]

Fordy, I accept that not everybody may have seen it, but I return to some of my earlier comments.

It is pretty clear that new material from Scone is now very thin on the ground. This is not a criticism, as there is only so much an individual can cover, and it appers that this task has now been completed. As previously mentioned, I believe the time has come to make a change, and no, NTB, I’m not after the gig, thanks!

At the end of the day, this latest offering is not original and has been in the global public domain for at least 18+ months, and to actually get paid for regurgitating it should raise questions. I still believe this to be a probably strong indicator that there’s nothing left in the tank.

Of the previous material, I have been aware of a few things via the TF coarse forum when he used to post. For example peeing in the wardrobe when blind drunk. I have to admit that was funny (although you have to question the example it sets to others), but there’s been virtually nothing since then.

I don’t necessarily think the approach has to change, as I agree that a bit of humour is good to include. Maybe it’s just time for someone else to write the column.

[TF_Fordy]

Sorry bud, it sounds like you have an axe to grind here.

You accept some people have not read it, you also say the material is funny – but say it’s time to go.

You are contradicting your own argument.

Also, If Scone has set himself up to be an example for anyone, it’s the first I’ve heard of it.

”I’ve seen that Ian Toplis pees in his wardrobe. Think I’ll give that a try…..”

????????

[TF_Man of Kent]

Don’t think so, Fordy.

Again the point I’m making is that the last item in particular is not original material and is blatant plagiarism for which MF (via our subcriptions) have paid money. I’d rather have that money spent on original contributions. Again, I make it clear that I have nothing against Scone as an angler/person, but I would like that column changed for the better.

I referred to a single item a LONG time ago which was humorous and clearly stated that since then it has been sadly lacking. I don’t recall many times since the column started that I was actually entertained (and yes, that was a claim that was made by the author on this Forum before the column started), and like others, felt I couldn’t relate to it.

These are the reasons there should be a change.

You’ve also missed the point about the example being made. I didn’t say that Scone intended to set an example. However (and we’re getting WAY off topic now), there has been a decline in moral standards in general public behaviour, which is accelerated by such behaviour in that article. The issue is really about whether it is right to be so drunk that you have no idea what you’re doing or where you are.

That’s a completely separate topic, I’m afraid, and one that should have a separate thread if it needs discussing.

[TF_caster robParticipant]

Agree with your point about moral standards MoK.

For some strange reason a large proportion of the populous seems to acclaim the sort of behaviour that is really a national embarrassment. That’s why if I go out for an evening I choose a restaurant and then afterwards continue my drinking at home.

[TF_Fordy]

Hilarious. Life must be one big party round your way!!!

[TF_baitchefParticipant]

I have to agree, because most of what he has written I have already read on the sites so i don’t really find his material al that funny. But,and its a very big but, I recon if you actually socialise with him in reality, you would definitely have the laugh of your life and I am sure he would have you in stitches.I don’t know him personally but without being conceited I believe I am a pretty good judge of character and you just know some people are good eggs. Added to that, he is Northern which lets face it says it all really. I actually think he has done alright for himself in the world of angling and at least he has had the bottle to have a go. In addition, it just goes to show the power of the Internet as well, when a an average Joe can achieve what he has. Good luck to him I say.

[TF_caster robParticipant]

@Fordy wrote:

Hilarious. Life must be one big party round your way!!!

Yes, it’s amazing the enjoyment that can be derived by not urinating on your furniture.

[TF_nicky the bricky]

you don’t urinate on your own furniture Rob,only on the hotels…and if you say you’ve NEVER urinated in a wrong place!!!!!!

[TF_caster robParticipant]

Oh yes, I’ve urinated in the wrong place in the past. I was only about twenty years old at the time though.

[TF_Fordy]

Try curling one out in a drawer for top class entertainment.

[TF_caster robParticipant]

Without wishing to appear critical I’ll leave that to the experts, if you don’t mind.

[Method Man]

So, let me get this right, did caster rob slash on fordys furniture ?

[TF_sumo]

I think Nathan Watson could write a few funny stories , don’t suppose people would think them that funny though then, turning up pissed for a match and all that !!!!

[sconeeee]

First of all, may I thank everyone who has posted support on here…very grateful lads ta.

Secondly, may I be the first to announce that The SconeZone has now been discontinued from MF Mag…I would like to say that it’s “reader pressure” that has achieved this (some would say that it is indeed an achievement), but I’m afraid the reasons behind the decision is not based on reader feedback.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time writing The SconeZone, and have no-one else to thank directly for the opportunity other than David Hall and Dave Harrell. As previously mentioned, I do of course, thank everyone (the readers) for their support along the way. I have recieved literally one or two e-mails of support over the years as well as the odd phone-call, so it’s with these kind folk that my major thanks lie…

As a footnote, may I also thank DHP for the lovely new Ford Mondeo I have purchased with my “article money” and also thank the very same people for the major sponsorship I have now recieved from both GOT Baits and Ultima.

If any of you fancy the odd night out, then I can be found posting on the MFS forum and can be contacted via that site.

Cheers…!

[ForestEverForestParticipant]

Scone – may I just say I like your articles in MF and its a shame you’re writing no more (even if you are sheep shagger!)

You Reds!!

[sconeeee]

Never said that I’ve packed in the writing…!!!

You Rams…

[AndyTParticipant]

Blimey Scone, you are dead famous now mate! I thought only the TOP stars got slagged off on this site…. ~sick

If these folk don’t like reading your stuff, what will they do when they have to LISTEN to it??

~think

Much love n respect

T

[fishfearmeParticipant]

Stopped reading Scone Zone after about third time he contributed.(Not as funny as Sid)
Then stopped buying MF full stop.
I use to give it to my grandson when i finished with it, but there were a couple of things in it that were not suitable for a ten year old to read.

[TF_ubat]

I dunno, why do people feel the need to whinge? ~think

Sconneee has a laugh and you could read about it, I wish him the best, and hope that humour is kept in the mag.

[TF_wightangler]

echo that Ron,
there’s really some sad F*ckers about and pmsl about past morality – try reading history.

[TF_raver]

I usually skip the ‘Scone Zone’ – not my cup of tea. I don’t read certain columns in my daily paper (The Sun) though so it’s no big deal to me really.

Personally i’d get rid of all the ‘Silly Stuff’ in MF as i can’t see the benefit – but that’s just my personal opinion.

I always Vet the ‘silly stuff’ before letting my little lad look at Magazine

[TF_SteveMay]

Good luck Sconee.

I always vet silly stuff before I let my lad read it as well.

M.o.K. Two questions….Anyone else you’d like to get rid of?….And what are the six numbers for tomorrow nights lottery. 😉

[TF_bigoldbigbuttParticipant]

now that scone zone`s gone .they might be able to squeeze a few more adverts in,that`ll be even better value then. (not).

[TF_NW Cut Angler]

@bigoldbigbutt wrote:

now that scone zone`s gone .they might be able to squeeze a few more adverts in,that`ll be even better value then. (not).

You obviously did not read what Dave Harrell posted.

[AnimalParticipant]

Well for what its worth i liked it made me chuckle and am pleased to say i know him and socialise with him occasionally and a funnier bloke you would find hard to meet.

What i dont like is how or what gives people on internet forums the right to start to have a go at people who do well in our sport. beats me and then start moaning when none of the well known anglers are about to answer their questions.

So what if people want to get drunk and have a good time, its called freedom of expression and our fathers and grandfathers fought and died so that we could do just that. We do not have the right to force our morals or judgements on other people or have others forced on us. Live you life and get on with it.

Some of you hark on about the in crowd and cliques in our sport…what about the biggest clique……the snide backstabbers who frequent internet forums upsetting other people.

And anyone who has not had a wee where they shouldnt is a liar.

[TF_andykoiParticipant]

good luck mate ~clap ~clap

[Philmynet]

Scone

The stuff you have written is bloody funny mate!!!

You post on here screams class and you could have retorted to the obvious abuse but have risen above it your a top man!!!

Thank god you post on MFS!!!!

[TF_ubat]

@SteveMay wrote:

I always vet silly stuff before I let my lad read it as well.

pmsl ~clap ~clap

[TF_Rob A]

@ubat wrote:

@SteveMay wrote:

I always vet silly stuff before I let my lad read it as well.

pmsl ~clap ~clap

He only does that to make sure that he’s not in it!!

How’s it going Steve, hope to see you in a few weeks!

[Author]

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