Very true chap. I've got Ash and Oak mainly at home but to be honest tend to use the gas central heating most.
Ivan, not sure about taking four hours to get a fire going properly? Sorry that makes no sense to me?
If we are talking about a "campfire" In my experience to get optimum base heat (so as for instance, you can burn non ideal wood, as that is all that can be foraged) And the versatiliy of allowing the coals/embers to cook properly, then have enough guts in the fire to coax it back to a source of real heat and light, i really do think it takes about four hours.
Because i am usually dealing with meets, so numbers that want room to cook individually or a large group pot, and then for there to be enough heat and room for the social circle to enjoy, i tend to light the fire early for it to be a welcoming sight as the guests enter camp, just my thoughts perhaps!
Ivan...