Thanks Boepsie - I will try this on our next compo

. For scratching, I thread a piece of velcro (normal or the outside of a hair curler), which I cut to my bait size) onto the circle, then tie the bait to the velcro strip. If I use a chokka base, I thread the top of the chokka "kite" (ie chokka strip is cut to a kite shape, with the bottom of the kite split to form legs for movement) onto the circle for more hold. I then add prawn or sardine cutlets. It can be a bit fiddly at first, especially when you are using smaller circles (3/0) but with practise, you can bait up pretty quickly in compo situations. Another easy base of chokka is to use the tentacles which I cut off the head, keeping a bit of the head which holds the tentacles together. I thread the first tentacle, then the velcro, then the second tentacle. Thereafter add the cutlets or belly shine. Again, the smaller the bait, the more fiddly so tough baits like chokka seem to be a better option, especially if peckers are around.
@Tommo - I am definitely going to try the crab! Thanks.
I don't think that I can fish with J's anymore

- in fact Hubby fished with me at the last compo (we fish out the same tackle box) and he got frustrated because I had so few J hooks in my box. I had forgotten to cater for him.