I finally sussed with a lot of help how to make decent hardwood charcoal.
If you want to now how it's done look for the charcoal blog on www.hampshirewoodsuppliers.co.uk
I'm sure I can do a deal over the winter months for BBBQS members for a bag and some Oak, Apple and Cherry smoking woods.
You can email me from the contact page of the above website.
regards Paul