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On Saturday 2nd June 2018, the weather subsided enough for Ratting Day to take place. This is a traditional day which is only held once a year, it was created as a form of pest control before there was rodent repellent on the island, and made into a competition to add a bit of fun to the day. The day started with the Acting Chief Islander and Agricultural Officer ringing the gong early Saturday morning to notify everyone that it was a suitable day. Soon after, there was lots of activity in the village, men with children following behind assembled in their gangs, ready to head west to the Potato Patches. Later the bus and private vehicles transported the ladies and children in their groups to their holiday huts at the Potato Patches, where they prepared a cook meal for the men after a tiring day hunting rats and mice. Later that afternoon after a rest and refreshments, everyone returned back to the settlement. Team leaders gathered at the Veterinary Clinic at 5:30pm with the tails from their day's catch to be counted and measured. Judging were the Medical, Veterinary and the Agricultural Officers. The Administrator was referee. After the tails had been totalled, the gangs enjoyed some refreshments at island homes before heading to the Prince Philip Hall at 8:30pm. Prizes were presented by the Administrator, followed by a dance to celebrate the day. |