The pain was indescribable and I think I let out an “OW!” to signify my distress. I managed to hold my position which meant that number three was not long in coming. I knew this one would test my resolve to the limit so I just gritted my teeth and waited. Two taps and then crack as the plimsoll made contact for the third and last time. Three strokes all more or less on the same place leaving a 13 year old’s backside in agony and feeling very sorry for myself. I straightened up and my hands immediately flew to my punished bottom.