I flew into Shobdon a few months ago, a lovely place which to some extent has an untouched by time feel about it. My approach was from the north east, despite the frequency being quite active I asked for and got a straight in on the westerly runway.
That said the fiso on duty at the time did sound a little stressed, and was very quick to dress down a pilot for a minor infringement in the circuit, I can't quite remember what exactly.
All said my perception of Shobdon on the day was lovely but a little uptight???
I will be returning soon, and would urge others to do so, but maybe at weekends when the absence of rotary training leaves the place little more, relaxed (or so I am told.)
Lone ranger I'm with you on the hi vis thing, a product of compensation culture gone mad and loved only by the H&S Gestapo who no doubt get a sense of empowerment in being able to dictate this bull***t to the masses
...rant over.