Yes Syd, the canvas or what ever the bag was made of and stitching would be wonky after all them years. I did have a metal water container that had cloth covering which you dunked to again have the evaporation effect to cool the container. But, being so frozen here, I would enjoy your nice clean HOT puffer billy fire, though one with a mechanical stoker.
And Hereward, I thought that you Poms watched our Neighbours TV soap. It was supposedly big viewing in the Old Dart. The series has FINALLY concluded here. GOOD RIDDANCE, I never watched the drivel.

Yes Steve I think it was popular here and another Home and Abroad, or something. I have never seen either. My dutch is obsessed with soap operas, so I am rarely allowed to watch TV.

Likewise my missus is obsessed with soaps, so I never get to see any TV programmes between 7.30 and 9pm. Happily she's never got interested in the Australian offerings.