Its all down to perseverance and confidence - have always been a hemp and tare person in the Trent, since I was a teenager. Can remember some days not getting a bite for several hours. Most people if taking other bait would have switched to that. That to me confuses somewhat the fish. Numerous examples of a few bites in the first 2 hours - both in the Trent, Nene and Welland, then a bumper session once they switched on. My first real pond fishing with hemp, was at Hartsholme lake in Lincoln. Was feeding it as an attractor for bream etc., and just decided to put a bit on the hook, it immediately sorted out the better roach. Feeding is the key - often and little with no pause. Too often I see a handful being thrown out and no further offerings for 20 minutes. Ok if you are placing a carpet for Carp, but not really good enough for roach.
Shame you are so far away Mr Fugley, or we could meet up.
Looked at some still water near you - seem mostly fir big Carp at £40 per day - that would buy me a season ticket here in the Midlands.