Fence assembly

Abstract

A fence post (100, fig 1) comprising a hollow elongate body comprising a longitudinal cavity (140, fig 1), the body comprising a hollow longitudinal protrusion (150, fig 1) defining a protrusion cavity continuous with the longitudinal cavity; and a longitudinal slit (135, fig 1) configured to provide access to the protrusion cavity. The longitudinal protrusion comprises one or more wire receiving apertures extending into the protrusion cavity, wherein each comprises a first aperture 732 configured to allow a length of fencing wire 760 to be received horizontally into the protrusion cavity and a second aperture 734 configured to allow the length of wire to move vertically within the cavity with respect to the first aperture, wherein the apertures are continuous with each other and arranged with that when wite is located in the second aperture it cannot move horizontally out of the cavity.

Description

Technical Field The present invention provides a fence post for a fence assembly, a locking element for holding a fencing wire within a fence post and a fence assembly comprising a fence post and a locking element. The invention further provides a fence post protector for use with the disclosed fence post to assist inserting the fence post into the ground. Background of the Invention Agricultural fence systems have been used for hundreds of years to enclose an area, often to keep livestock in or out of the area. Conventionally, timber-based fence systems have been used where a fencing wire is secured to a timber fence post using metal staples driven into the timber fence post. These systems are inexpensive and easy to assemble and can be erected easily on site by a contractor or farmer. However, by their nature, fence systems are exposed to environmental conditions, such as wind and rain, that can result in degradation of the timber and reduce the integrity and durability of the fence system. Indeed, many timber fence systems rot within five years and therefore need to be replaced regularly which is undesirable. Harder woods, which are more durable and last longer can be used to mitigate this problem to an extent. However, due to the difficulty of driving staples into the wood, harder woods cannot typically be used. Furthermore, there is currently a worldwide shortage of timber caused by a number of factors, including but not limited to, increases in the building industry, increasing reliance on imported lumber and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. As such, there is a desire to find suitable alternatives to timber-based fence systems. One such alternative is a metal-based fencing system. GB 2541960 A discloses one such system where a hollow metal fence post is provided comprising a plurality of small holes configured to receive a metal retaining clip in the form of a metal u-shaped staple. Each leg of the metal u-shaped staple is received within an aperture such that the metal fencing wire is sandwiched between the central portion of the u-shaped staple. This system therefore works in a similar manner to conventional timber fence posts, with the u-shaped staple being hammered into the body of the post (via the apertures). However, hammering the u-shaped staples into the post is not effortless, resulting in the fence system being labour intensive to install. Furthermore, once the staples are inserted, it can be very time consuming to disassemble the fence system again. AU 2009248435 A1 discloses another metal-based fence system. This system has as metal fence post having three walls that extend radially out from a central point. One of the walls comprises a plurality of slots extending through the wall and a plurality of keepers associated therewith. The keepers pivot to allow the fencing wires to be received within the slots and are biased such that, once the wire is inserted, the keepers obstruct the slot such that the fencing wire cannot be removed. However, there are a number of difficulties associated with the system disclosed in AU ‘435 when in use. First, when assembling the system, mis-alignment issues are often encountered where fencing wires are received within undesirable slots. Typically, fencing systems are assembled by tensioning a plurality of fencing wires at either ends of the system (e.g. at or near to a strainer post) such that, as the wire is tensioned, the wires are inserted into the slots. However, during the process with the system of AU ‘435, fencing wires can be caught by, or received within, undesirable slots (e.g. a slot too low down or too high up for the desired arrangement of the fencing wire). As such, installers (such as farmers) are required to manually remove, and reposition, the fencing wires within the slots, usually whilst the wire is under tension. However, this process is difficult with the system of AU ‘435 for a combination of reasons. First, the keepers are fiddley and difficult to pivot and provide only a small slot through which the wire may be passed when the keeper is in the releasing position. Second, a certain degree of vertical movement is required whilst inserting the stock netting into the series of slots down the post, due to the vertical spacing wires in the stock netting, and other factors such as an incline or undulating ground. However, due to the narrow nature of the slots provided in the AU ‘435’, and the positioning of the retaining clip, very little movement is possible within the slots which can make inserting multiple wires into the same post quite difficult. Thirdly, the posts provided by the system can be unstable and despite an integral anti lift feature, can be relatively easily removed from the ground. This means that the posts may be easily knocked over by livestock, or removed by thieves such that livestock can be removed or stolen. Alternatively, as the fence post is made from metal, some thieves may target theft of the posts themselves to scavenge the metal. As such, the posts being relatively easily removed from the ground can potentially cause security problems. As such, the present invention aims to provide an improved fencing system that can be made from metal (such as steel) and intends to solve some of the known problems associated with foregoing systems. Summary of Invention In a first aspect of the invention, a fence post for a fence assembly is provided. The fence post optionally comprises a hollow elongate body defining a longitudinal cavity. Optionally, the hollow elongate body comprises a hollow longitudinal protrusion defining a protrusion cavity continuous with the longitudinal cavity. Optionally, the hollow elongate body comprises a longitudinal slit configured to provide access to the protrusion cavity, wherein the hollow longitudinal protrusion optionally comprises one or more wire receiving apertures extending into the protrusion cavity. Optionally, each wire receiving aperture comprises a first aperture configured to allow a length of fencing wire to be received horizontally into the protrusion channel; and optionally a second aperture configured to allow the length of fencing wire to move vertically within the protrusion channel with respect to the first aperture. Optionally, the first and second apertures are continuous with each other and arranged such that, when a length of fencing wire is located within the second aperture, the fencing wire cannot be moved horizontally out of the protrusion channel. In a second aspect of the invention, a fence post for a fence assembly is provided. The fence post comprising: a hollow elongate body defining a longitudinal cavity, the hollow elongate body comprising: a hollow longitudinal protrusion defining a protrusion cavity continuous with the longitudinal cavity; and a longitudinal slit configured to provide access to the protrusion cavity; wherein the hollow longitudinal protrusion comprises one or more wire receiving apertures extending into the protrusion cavity, wherein each wire receiving aperture comprises: a first aperture configured to allow a length of fencing wire to be received horizontally into the protrusion channel; and a second aperture configured to allow the length of fencing wire to move vertically within the protrusion channel with respect to the first aperture; wherein the first and second apertures are continuous with each other and arranged such that, when a length of fencing wire is located within the second aperture, the fencing wire cannot be moved horizontally out of the protrusion channel. The second aspect is thus a specific embodiment of the first aspect of the invention. The first and second aspects of the invention thus each provide a fencing post that can be used as part of a fencing assembly (as described in the third aspect or fourth aspect outlined below). In particular, the fence post provided by the first and second aspects is improved with respects to the known posts described above as the fencing wire received within the wire receiving apertures can be more easily adjusted (e.g. moved to a different slot if the fencing wire is misaligned when assembling the fence assembly), leading to an improvement in the ease of assembly and disassembly. Furthermore, the post provides a more sturdy and secure engagement with the ground such that the fence system is more secure. The features that contribute to these advantages are discussed in greater detail below. The following features apply to both the first aspect and the second aspect equally. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that any suitable and / or desirable number and / or arrangement of the following optional features may be combined in any suitable and / or desirable way to provide an embodiment falling within the scope of the first or second aspects of the invention. Optionally, the hollow elongate body (and hollow longitudinal protrusion) are made from a metallic (e.g. metal) material. For example, the metallic material is steel, however any other suitable and / or desirable metal providing the desired strength and durability for a fence post may be used. Optionally, the hollow elongate body (including the hollow longitudinal protrusion) may be formed by bending a sheet of metal using a series of rollers or presses. However, it will be appreciated that any suitable and / or desirable post forming process may be used. For example, a moulding process (such as casting or metallic injection moulding) may be used. Within the meaning of the present invention, a hollow elongate body is a body comprising one or more walls that defines a longitudinal cavity therewithin. As noted above, the hollow elongate body may comprise a longitudinal slit Preferably, this slit extends the full length of the hollow elongate body such that the one or more walls of the hollow elongate body do not fully enclose the longitudinal cavity. However, the shape of the hollow elongate body (i.e. defined by the one or more walls) may be considered to extend across the slit (i.e. the slit is considered to be an imaginary wall or part thereof). Similarly, the hollow elongate body may comprise a hollow longitudinal protrusion defining the protrusion cavity. The hollow longitudinal protrusion may be formed by one or more protrusion walls that extend from a wall, a side or a face of the hollow elongate body. Preferably, the hollow longitudinal protrusion extends substantially perpendicularly from (e.g. a wall, side or face of) the hollow elongate body. In other words, the hollow longitudinal protrusion is defined by one or more walls that have at least a part which extends from the hollow elongate body at an angle between 90 degrees and 135 degrees inclusive. The protrusion cavity may thus be considered to be continuous with the longitudinal cavity of the hollow elongate body, but defined separately therefrom by an imaginary boundary formed by extending the walls of the hollow elongate body from which the protrusion extends. In other words, the protrusion cavity forms a channel that is connected to, and extends outwards from, the longitudinal cavity of the hollow elongate body. However, the shape of the hollow elongate body (i.e. as defined by the one or more walls) is not considered to include the protrusion. In other words, the shape of the hollow elongate body may be considered to extend across the cavity defined by the protrusion (i.e. the shape is defined in part by an imaginary wall that extends across the base of the protrusion). The hollow elongate body may be any suitable or desirable shape. For example, the hollow elongate body may substantially be based on a hollow cylindrical shape (e.g. having a circular or oval cross-section in the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis) or a hollow prism having a multi-sided polygon shape in cross-section (i.e. in the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis). For example, the multi-sided polygon shape may be a regular or irregular three-sided, four-sided, five-sided, six-sided, seven-sided, eight-sided or nine-sided shape. For example, the hollow elongate body may have a regular or irregular triangle, square, rectangle, pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, octagon, nonagon or decagon shape. It will be appreciated that cross-section that is “substantially based on” a given shape means that the shape has an overall impression of the shape but may deviate therefrom with surface features (such as indents, recesses or projection) or curved corners. For example, a hollow elongate body having four walls connected by bevelled, fileted or rounded corners may be considered to be “based on” a rectangle (i.e. if the width of the walls are different) or a square (i.e. if the width of the walls are the same). The hollow elongate body of the fence post may have a uniform width along its length (defined in parallel of the longitudinal axis) before the fence post is inserted into the ground. However, upon insertion into the ground, part of the longitudinal cavity is filled with ground material (e.g. soil). As the ground material begins to (partially) fill the longitudinal cavity, the ground material compacts and exerts a force on the walls of the hollow elongate cavity perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. This, in turn, causes the walls of the hollow elongate cavity to splay (i.e. becomes wider) at the end being inserted. As a result, the hollow elongate body becomes wedged into the ground which improves the stability and sturdiness of the fence post within the ground (without the need for an internal reinforcement member). As a result, the fence post is more securely inserted and more resistant to theft. Fence posts are inserted into the ground by applying a downwards force to the top of the post (e.g. using instrumentation such as a fence post rammer). As such, the fence post may be subjected to high stresses which can cause the fence post to bend, ripple, crumple or warp at points of weakness. Apertures for inserting the fencing wire may be considered to be points of weakness, as such, the systems known in the art minimise the size of the apertures (or slots) to minimise the weakness and reduce the tendency for the fence post to warp as it is being inserted. However, as described above, these small apertures provide significant downsides with respect to the usability and adjustability of the system. By providing the fence post of the present invention with a hollow longitudinal protrusion, the present inventors have found a way to increase the size of the wire receiving apertures (thus improving the ease of use and adjustability of a fencing system comprising the fence post) without weakening the integrity of the fence post. As described above, the hollow longitudinal protrusion may comprise the wire receiving apertures which allows the fencing wire to be received within the protrusion cavity. The wire receiving apertures may comprise a first aperture and a second aperture, wherein the first aperture allows the length of fencing wire to be inserted horizontally into the protrusion cavity and the second aperture allows the fencing wire to be moved vertically (e.g. upwards or downwards) within the protrusion cavity. The first aperture may thus be considered to span the width of the hollow longitudinal protrusion such that the fencing wire may linearly extend through the protrusion cavity without being bent. Similarly, the second aperture may be considered to be sized such that there can be significant vertical movement of the fencing wire within the wire receiving aperture. Ordinarily, such a large wire receiving aperture spanning the width of a wall of the fence post and / or providing significant vertical space for movement would be considered to be undesirable by a designer of a fencing system as it would introduce an undesirable amount of weakness that would be considered to result in the fence post bending at the aperture, thus rending the fence post unusable. However, the present inventors have found that by limiting the width of the wall (across which the first aperture extends) to a narrow protrusion, the weakness introduced by a large aperture is negligible and the fence post may be inserted without bending. Thus the present invention allows significant movement of the fencing wire within the aperture (due to the increased aperture size compared to other known systems) which in turn improves the ease with which fencing wires may be adjusted (i.e. removed from one slot and reinserted into another slot) without reducing the strength or integrity of the fence post as a whole. It will be appreciated that the hollow elongate body will have a length dimension (parallel to the longitudinal axis), a width dimension (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and extending between two sides of the hollow elongate body, wherein neither side includes the hollow longitudinal protrusion) and a depth dimension (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and extending between two sides of the hollow elongate body, wherein one of the sides includes the hollow longitudinal protrusion). Similarly, the protrusion cavity may be considered to have a length dimension (parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hollow longitudinal protrusion), a width dimension (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and extending between two sides of the hollow longitudinal protrusion, wherein neither of the sides comprise the opening that connects the protrusion cavity to the longitudinal cavity) and a depth dimension (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and extending between a front side of the hollow longitudinal protrusion and the opening of the protrusion cavity to the longitudinal cavity). Thus, in preferred embodiment, the width of the hollow longitudinal protrusion is narrower than the width of the hollow elongate body. For example, the widest part of the protrusion cavity preferably has a smaller width dimension (i.e. the dimension perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the protrusion cavity which extends from one side of the hollow longitudinal protrusion to the other) than the widest part of the hollow elongate body. For example, the widest part of the protrusion cavity preferably has a smaller width dimension than the front facing portion (i.e. a front side wall) of the hollow elongate body from which the protrusion extends. In some embodiments, the widest part of the protrusion cavity preferably has a smaller width dimension (i.e. the dimension perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the protrusion cavity which extends from one side of the hollow longitudinal protrusion to the other) than the narrowest part of the longitudinal cavity. Optionally, the width of the hollow longitudinal protrusion is from 5% to 50% of the width of the hollow elongate body, e.g. from 10% to 40% of the width of the hollow elongate body, e.g. from 15% to 35% of the width of the hollow elongate body, e.g. from 20% to 30% of the width of the hollow elongate body, e.g. approximately 25% ± 2%. The longitudinal slit preferably provides access (e.g. to a user) to the protrusion cavity (via the longitudinal cavity). As such, the hollow longitudinal protrusion and the longitudinal slit are preferably arrange on opposing sides of the hollow elongate body. For example, the opening provided by longitudinal slit may provide a linear line of sight to the protrusion cavity through the back side of the fence post. As such, a locking element may be inserted into the protrusion cavity via the longitudinal slit. Optionally, the hollow longitudinal protrusion has a front facing portion (i.e. a portion that is parallel to the extension of a fencing wire) and two laterally facing portions (i.e. a portion that is perpendicular to the extension of a fencing wire and / or a wall of the hollow elongate portion from which the protrusion extends). Optionally, the front facing portion may be formed by a front facing protrusion wall, and each laterally facing portion may be formed by a protrusion sidewall. Optionally, when the hollow longitudinal protrusion is formed by a single wall (i.e. one curved wall forming a substantially semi-circular shape), the single wall may comprise two laterally facing portions and a front facing portion (i.e. at the apex of the curve). Optionally, the first aperture extends through the front facing portion, and the second aperture extends through both of the laterally facing potions. The first and second apertures may thus be considered to be through-holes extending through the hollow longitudinal protrusion with a first longitudinal axis and second longitudinal axis respectively. Preferably, the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis are parallel to each other, as well as being parallel to the axis of extension of the fencing wire when the fencing wire is received within the wire receiving aperture. Optionally, the first aperture is a slot that extends the entire width of the front facing portion, e.g. the entire width of a front facing protrusion wall. Optionally, the second aperture extends (e.g. along the lateral facing portion, e.g. the protrusion sidewalls) from the front facing portion (e.g. the front facing protrusion wall) towards (e.g. the wall of) the hollow elongate body from which the hollow longitudinal protrusion extends. Optionally, the second aperture extends (e.g. along the lateral facing portion, e.g. the protrusion sidewalls) from the front facing portion to a base of the hollow longitudinal protrusion. Optionally, the second aperture extends (e.g. along the lateral facing portion, e.g. the protrusion sidewalls) from the front facing portion part-way to the base of the hollow longitudinal protrusion. The base is defined by a wall (or walls) of the hollow from which the hollow longitudinal protrusion extends. Optionally, the first aperture has a substantially rectangular shape (e.g. a slot) having a height (defined parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hollow longitudinal protrusion). The height is preferably from 4 mm to 20 mm, e.g. from 6 mm to 18 mm, e.g. from 8 mm to 16 mm, e.g. from 10 mm to 15 mm, e.g. from 12 mm to 14 mm. Optionally, the height of the first aperture is from between 50% and 100% of the width of the hollow longitudinal protrusion. Optionally, the second aperture has any suitable and / or desirable shape. For example, the second aperture may have a substantially ovular cross-sectional shape. Optionally, the major axis of the ellipse is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hollow longitudinal protrusion, e.g. the ellipse is arranged to be perpendicular to the first aperture slot. For example, the second aperture may have a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape, wherein the length of the rectangle is parallel to the longitudinal axis, e.g. the rectangular second aperture is arranged to be perpendicular to the (e.g. rectangular) first aperture. Optionally, the second aperture has a height (e.g. the dimension parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hollow longitudinal protrusion) that is between 1.5 and 4 times the height of the first aperture. For example, the height of second aperture is from 1.5 to 4 times the height of the first aperture, e.g. from 1.6 to 3.5 times the height of the first aperture, e.g. from 1.8 to 3 times the height of the first aperture, e.g. from 2 to 2.5 times the height of the first aperture. Optionally, the bottom of the first aperture (i.e. the lowest or bottommost part of the first aperture) is vertically offset from (e.g. above) the bottom (i.e. the lowest or bottommost part) of the second aperture. Optionally, the top of the first aperture (i.e. the topmost part of the first aperture) is vertically offset from (e.g. below) the top (i.e. the topmost part) of the second aperture. Optionally, either the top or bottom of the first aperture is in-line with the top or bottom of the second aperture. As such, a fencing wire is received horizontally into the protrusion cavity via the first aperture. When the fencing wire is within the protrusion cavity, it sits within the second aperture and may be moved to positions vertically above and / or below the first aperture. As such, when the fencing wire is moved above or below the first aperture, the fencing wire cannot be removed from the protrusion cavity by horizontal movement alone. In other words, when the fencing wire engages with the bottom and / or the top of the second aperture, horizontal movement results in the fencing wire engaging with a wall of the second aperture and / or an internal wall of the hollow longitudinal protrusion. Thus, preferably, to remove a fencing wire located within the second aperture, the fencing wire must be moved both vertically and horizontally. The hollow longitudinal protrusion may be any suitable and / or desirable shape. For example, the hollow longitudinal protrusion may have a triangular, square, rectangular, semi-circular or mutli-sided polygon shape. Optionally, the hollow longitudinal protrusion is substantially U shaped having a front facing wall and two sidewalls (e.g. a substantially square or rectangular shape). The two sidewalls may be substantially parallel to each other. Alternatively, the two sidewalls may extend from the front facing wall to the wall of the hollow elongate body at an angle. Optionally, the hollow longitudinal protrusion is configured to receive a locking element within the protrusion cavity. For example, the locking element may be inserted within the protrusion cavity via the longitudinal slit. Optionally, the hollow longitudinal protrusion is configured to be receive and hold a locking element within the protrusion cavity. Optionally, the hollow longitudinal protrusion comprises a holding means for holding the locking element within the protrusion cavity. Optionally, one or more walls of the hollow longitudinal protrusion comprises the holding means. Optionally, the holding means comprises a holding aperture extending through a sidewall or a laterally facing portion of the hollow longitudinal protrusion. Optionally, the holding means comprises a pair of holding apertures, wherein each holding aperture in the pair is arranged on opposite sides of the hollow longitudinal protrusion. Optionally the (e.g. each) holding aperture is configured to receive an attachment means associated with the locking element. Optionally, the (e.g. each) holding aperture is discrete from the first aperture and the second aperture, i.e. the holding apertures do not connect to the first or second apertures. Optionally, the holding means is located proximate to the second aperture. For example, the holding means may be located above or below (but in-line with) the second aperture. Optionally, the holding means are located such that, when the holding means engages with the locking element, the locking element is positioned such that a (e.g. first) part of the locking element extends across the first aperture. As such, the locking element acts to obstruct the first aperture and prevent a fencing wire located within the protrusion cavity (e.g. in the second aperture) from being removed from the protrusion cavity via the first aperture. Optionally, the holding means is configured to allow the locking element to pivot between a first position (where the locking element obstructs the first aperture) and a second position (where the locking element is moved away from the first aperture and provides a gap through which a fencing wire may pass). Optionally, the holding means is configured to releasably hold the locking element within the protrusion cavity. As such, the locking means can be easily removed from the fence post which allows easy assembly and disassembly of a fencing system. Optionally, the hollow longitudinal protrusion comprises a plurality of wire receiving apertures distributed along its length. As such, the fence post may be configured to receive and support a plurality of parallelly extending fencing wires. In a third aspect of the present invention, a fence assembly is provided. The fence assembly comprising the fence post of the first aspect or the second aspect. The fence assembly optionally further comprises one or more fencing wires, wherein each fencing wire comprises a length that is received within one of the one or more wire receiving apertures such that each fencing wire is supported by the fence post. The fence assembly optionally further comprises one or more locking elements configured to be received within the protrusion cavity of the fence post proximate to one of the one or more wire receiving aperture. Each locking element optionally further comprises a first part that is arranged to move between a first position and a second position when the locking element is received within the protrusion cavity. Optionally, when in the first position, the first part engages with an internal wall of the hollow longitudinal protrusion and obstructs the first aperture such that the length of fencing wire received within the protrusion cavity is prevented from passing through the first aperture. Optionally, when in the second position, the first part of the locking element is disengaged from the internal wall such that the first aperture is not obstructed and a length fencing wire can pass into or out of the protrusion cavity via the first aperture. Optionally, the first part of the locking element is biased towards the first position by a biasing means. In a fourth aspect of the present invention, a fence assembly is provided, the fence assembly comprising: a fence post in accordance with the first aspect or the second aspect; one or more fencing wires, wherein each fencing wire comprises a length that is received within one of the one or more wire receiving apertures such that each fencing wire is supported by the fence post; one or more locking elements configured to be received within the protrusion cavity of the fence post proximate to one of the one or more wire receiving aperture; wherein each locking element comprises a first part that is arranged to move between a first position and a second position when the locking element is received within the protrusion cavity; wherein, in the first position, the first part engages with an internal wall of the hollow longitudinal protrusion and obstructs the first aperture such that the length of fencing wire received within the protrusion cavity is prevented from passing through the first aperture; wherein, in the second position, the first part of the locking element is disengaged from the internal wall such that the first aperture is not obstructed and a length fencing wire can pass into or out of the protrusion cavity via the first aperture; and wherein, the first part of the locking element is biased towards the first position by a biasing means. The third and fourth aspects of the present invention thus provide an improved fence assembly that includes the fence post of the first and second aspects. As such, all optional features and advantages associated with the first and second aspects apply equally to the third and fourth aspects. In addition to the fence posts, the fence assembly comprises a novel locking element that is wholly received within the protrusion cavity (e.g. no part of the locking element extends outside of the fence post). By being wholly received within the hollow longitudinal protrusion, the locking element is partially protected from the external environment and is thus prevented from being accidentally caught by passing livestock. Furthermore, the longitudinal cavity provides a space into which the locking element can extend. As such, in some embodiments the locking element may be moved from the first position to the second position using a lever like part to easily pivot (e.g. by amplification of an input force applied to a lever member of the locking element) the locking element. Such a mechanism would not be desirable if the locking element was located on the outside of a fence post as it would result in the locking element protruding undesirably which could result in accidental catching or breakage (e.g. by passing livestock). Furthermore, by biasing the locking element towards the first position, the locking element, by default, obstructs the first aperture and thus prevents accidentally release of the fencing wire from the wire receiving portion. The following features apply to both the third aspect and the second aspect equally. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that any suitable and / or desirable number and / or arrangement of the following optional features may be combined in any suitable and / or desirable way to provide an embodiment falling within the scope of the third or fourth aspects of the invention. Optionally, each locking element further comprises a second part (e.g. a lever part, e.g. a handle part) connected to the first part. Optionally, when the locking element is in the first position the second part extends towards the longitudinal cavity of the hollow elongate body. Optionally, when the locking element is in the first position, the second part is located or positioned above or below the first aperture and extends into the longitudinal cavity at an approximately perpendicular angle to the front facing portion (or front facing protrusion wall) of the hollow longitudinal protrusion. As such, the second part may be considered to provide a lever or handle that can be engaged with through the longitudinal slit to easily pivot the locking element and move the first part away from the first position. For example, the second part is not visible through the first aperture when the fence post is viewed straight on. Optionally, the first part extends from the second part at an angle from +90 to +150 degrees (e.g. an obtuse angle) such that the first part extends across the first aperture to engage the internal wall of the hollow longitudinal protrusion. Optionally, the first part extends from the second part at an obtuse angle, e.g. an angle from between +100 degrees to +135 degrees, e.g. from between +110 degrees to +130 degrees, e.g. approximately +120 degrees. By providing the first part at an obtuse angle there may exist a spring like bias between the first and second parts of the locking element that can assist in biasing the locking element towards the first position. Optionally, the locking element may further comprise a third part extending from the second part at an angle from -90 to -150 degrees (wherein the second part is configured to define 0 degrees, with a positive angle being defined as being a clockwise angle therefrom, and a negative angle being defined as an anticlockwise angle therefrom). Optionally, the third part extends from the second part at an obtuse angle, e.g. an angle from between -100 degrees to -135 degrees, e.g. from between -110 degrees to -130 degrees, e.g. approximately -120 degrees. In other words, the first part and the third part both extend radially (e.g. flare out) from the second part. For example, the first part and the third part may be provided in planes that are substantially mirror images of each other (with the second part at least partially provided in the plane of symmetry). Optionally, the third part engages with the internal wall of the hollow longitudinal protrusion on an opposite side of the first aperture to the first part. As such, by providing both the first and third parts at obtuse angles with respect to the second part, the first and third parts comprise an inherent spring potential that allows the third part to help to bias the first part towards the first position. As such, optionally, the third part acts as the biasing means to bias the first part towards the internal wall in the first position. Optionally, when the locking element is in the second position, the angle between the second part and the third part decreases and the bias holding the first part in the first position is overcome. The first part is thus disengaged from the internal wall whilst the third part remains in contact with the internal wall. By reducing the angle between the second part and the third part when the locking element is in the second position, a spring potential is provided within the locking element such that, when the force (e.g. applied to the second part) is removed, the spring potential is released and the angle between the second part and the third part returns to its original position. As such, the first part of the locking element is biased back towards the internal wall of the protrusion. Optionally, to move the first part from the first position to the second position, a force is applied to the second part in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hollow longitudinal protrusion. For example, the second part is used as a lever to overcome the bias and disengage the first part from the internal wall of the hollow longitudinal protrusion. Optionally, each locking element further comprises an attachment means configured to engage with a holding means of the hollow longitudinal protrusion. Optionally, the attachment means and holding means cooperate to hold the locking element within the protrusion cavity of the hollow longitudinal protrusion. Optionally, the attachment means and holding means are configured to cooperate such that the locking element can pivot between the first position and the second position. Optionally, the attachment means and holding means are configured to releasably hold the locking element within the protrusion cavity. As such, the locking element may be removed from the fence post to allow easy assembly and disassembly of the fence system. Optionally, the locking elements may be provided within the protrusion cavity before the fencing wire is tensioned and / or fencing wire is inserted within the wire receiving aperture. In such embodiments, the process of tensioning the wire results in the fencing wire being positioned at the first aperture such that it exerts a force on the first part of the locking element that overcomes the bias of the locking member, moving the first part away from the first position and allowing the fencing wire to be moved within the wire receiving aperture. Alternatively, the locking elements may be provided within the protrusion cavity after the fencing wire has been tensioned and / or inserted within the wire receiving aperture. As such the locking elements may be used to easily assemble or disassemble the fencing system, either by removing the locking elements entirely or by pivoting the locking elements from the first position to the second position. Optionally, the holding means is located proximate to the second aperture. For example, the holding means may be located above or below (but in-line with) the second aperture. Optionally, the holding means are located such that, when the holding means engages with the locking element, the locking element is positioned such that a (e.g. first) part of the locking element extends across the first aperture. As such, the locking element acts to obstruct the first aperture and prevent a fencing wire located within the protrusion cavity (e.g. in the second aperture) from being removed from the protrusion cavity via the first aperture. Optionally, the attachment means comprises a protrusion and the holding means comprises a holding aperture that extends through a wall of the hollow longitudinal protrusion, wherein the holding aperture is configured to receive the protrusion. Optionally, the attachment means comprises a pair of protrusions extending in opposing directions (e.g. with respect to each other), and the holding means comprises a pair of holding apertures, wherein each holding aperture in the pair of holding apertures are arranged on opposite sides of the hollow longitudinal protrusion. Optionally, the (e.g. each) holding aperture is discrete from the first aperture and the second aperture, i.e. the holding apertures do not connect to the first or second apertures. Optionally, the holding means is located proximate to the second aperture. For example, the holding means may be located above or below (but in-line with) the second aperture. Optionally, the holding means are located such that, when the holding means engages with the locking element, the locking element is positioned such that a (e.g. first) part of the locking element extends across the first aperture. As such, the locking element acts to obstruct the first aperture and prevent a fencing wire located within the protrusion cavity (e.g. in the second aperture) from being removed from the protrusion cavity via the first aperture. Optionally, the attachment means is located proximate to the second portion of the locking element. Optionally, the attachment means extends from the second portion of the locking element. For example, the attachment means may be a pair of protrusions that extend from either side of the second portion. Alternatively, the attachment means may extend from (e.g. form part of) the first and / or third parts proximate to the second portion. For example, the first part may comprise a first protrusion proximate to a first side of the second portion, wherein the first protrusion extends out in a first direction and the third part may comprise a second protrusion proximate to a second (e.g. the other) side of the second portion, wherein the second protrusion extends out in a second direction substantially opposite to the first direction. Optionally, the pair of (e.g. the first and second) protrusions forming the attachment means may be in-line with each other. Alternatively, the pair of (e.g. the first and second) protrusions may be horizontally offset from one another. Optionally, the first part of the locking element comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first part engages with the internal wall of the hollow longitudinal protrusion, and the second end of the first part comprises the attachment means. Optionally, the third part of the locking element comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the third part engages with the internal wall of the hollow longitudinal protrusion on the opposite side of the first aperture to the first end of the first part, and the second end of the third part comprises the attachment means. Optionally, the attachment means comprises a pair of protrusions, wherein one of the pair of protrusions is located at the second end of the first part, and the other of the pair of protrusions is located at the second end of the third part. Optionally, the locking element is formed from a continuous length of wire. Optionally, the length of wire is bent to provide three u-bends. Optionally, the three u-bends extend in three different planes. Optionally, a first u-bend forms the first part, a second u-bend forms the second part and a third u-bend forms the third part. Optionally, the first part (e.g. the first u-bend) has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end comprises (e.g. the wire is bent to form) a first protrusion for engaging with part of a holding means for holding the locking element within the protrusion cavity, and the second end is continuous with a first end of the second part (e.g. the second u-bend). Optionally, the second part (e.g. the second u-bend) has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is continuous with a second end of the second part (e.g. the second u-bend), and the second end comprises (e.g. the wire is bent to form) a second protrusion for engaging with part of the holding means. Optionally, the fencing assembly further comprising a strainer post assembly. The strainer post assembly comprises a strainer post and, optionally a strut, and optionally an anchor post attached to said strut. Optionally, the strainer post comprises a post body having an insertion end configured to be inserted into the ground. Optionally, the strainer post comprises a first portion and a second portion, wherein, when the strainer post is inserted into the ground, the first portion is within the ground (e.g. below ground level) and the second portion extends above ground (e.g. is above ground level). Optionally, the first portion comprises a (e.g. one or more) thrust plate. Optionally, the (e.g. each) thrust plate extends substantially perpendicularly from the first portion of the post body. Optionally, the (e.g. each) thrust plate is an elongate plate, preferably having a substantially rectangular shape or trapezoidal shape. As such, the thrust plate(s) (e.g. each) comprise a longitudinal axis (e.g. along the length of the rectangular or trapezoid shaped plate forming the thrust plate). Optionally, the longitudinal axes of the thrust plate(s) is / are arranged to be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the post body. As such that the thrust plate(s) optionally extend along the post body in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the post body. The thrust plate(s) advantageously increase the surface area of the post body and thus increases the surface area of the first portion engaging with the ground. This increase in surface area allows a greater strain to be exerted on the post without resulting in the post moving within the ground. This therefore improves the stability of the strainer post in the ground. Optionally, the first portion comprises a plurality (e.g. two, e.g. three, e.g. four) thrust plates. Optionally, the plurality of thrust plates are disposed around the post body (e.g. at the first portion) substantially evenly. For example, if the first portion comprises two thrust plates, the two plates are arranged to from the post body on opposing sides. In other words, the two thrust plates are arranged at substantially 180 degrees with respect to each other. For example, if the first portion comprises three thrust plates, the three thrust plates are arranged at 120 degrees with respect to each other. For example, if the first portion comprises four thrust plates, the angle between each of the thrust plates is substantially 90 degrees. In other words, each of the four thrust plates is arranged at substantially 90 degrees with respect to two of the three remaining thrust plates. As such, if the first portion comprises N thrust plates, the thrust plates are disposed at 360 / N degrees with respect to each other. By increasing the number of thrust plates, the surface area of the first portion is increased and the strain resistances is improved. Optionally, the first portion comprises a plate having a first plate portion that extends from the post body at an angle from between 1 and 20 degrees (e.g. extending from the insertion end towards the second portion). Optionally, the first plate portion extends from the post body at angle from between 5 and 15 degrees, e.g. from between 6 and 12 degrees, e.g. from between 8 and 10 degrees, e.g. approximately 8 degrees. The first plate portion thus forms a wedge shaped gap (e.g. increasing in width towards in a direction from the insertion end towards the second portion) between the post body and the plate that provides an anti-lift means to the strainer post. The anti-lift means is achieved by virtue of upwards movement of the strainer post (e.g. a pulling force exerted to pull the strainer post out of the ground) results in the gap being filled with ground material (e.g. soil) which, in turn, increases the force and pressure exerted on the strainer post by the ground to keep it within the ground. As such, the plate provides an improved security feature which prevents unauthorised disassembly and / or theft of parts of the fence system. Optionally, the first plate portion may be formed by cutting (e.g. laser cutting) the post body of the strainer post and pulling (e.g. bending) the cut portion out to provide the first plate portion. As such, optionally, the plate (e.g. the first plate portion) may be integral (e.g. continuous) with the post body of the strainer post. Optionally, the plate is a distinct component to the post body of the strainer post. For example, the plate may be attached to the post body by any suitable and / or desirable fixing means (e.g. bolts, screws, pins or welding). Optionally, the plate may further comprise a second plate portion continuous with the first plate portion, wherein the second plat portion sits flush with the post body and thus provides a secure contact (e.g. via welding or screws) between the plate and the post body. Optionally, the first portion of the post body comprises two plates (e.g. each having a first plate portion extending outwardly at an angle, e.g. each having a second plate portion sitting flush with the post body). Optionally, the two plates are arranged on opposite sides of the post body. Optionally, the strainer post assembly comprises a strut extending (e.g. diagonally, e.g. at an angle) from the (e.g. second portion of the post body of the) strainer post towards the ground. Optionally, the strut comprises a first end connected to the second portion and a second end arranged to be proximate to the ground. Optionally, wherein the first end of the strut comprises an angled end complementary to the angle of extension from the second portion to the ground, such that the first end of the strut sits substantially flush with the post body. Optionally, the second end is engaged with the ground directly (e.g. is in direct contact with the ground) or indirectly (e.g. via a further component attached to the second end). Optionally, the second end comprises a protrusion which may be configured to engage with the ground directly. Alternatively, the protrusion may be configured to engage with a further component that is engaged with its ground. Optionally, the second end of the strut is connected to an anchor post configured to be inserted within the ground. Optionally, the anchor post comprises a hollow elongate body. Optionally, the hollow elongate body comprises a first end, a second end and one or more walls extending therebetween. Preferably, the second end is open (i.e. defined by the perimeter formed by the one or more walls) such that, as the anchor post is inserted into the ground, ground material (e.g. soil) is inserted within the hollow enlongate body through the second end. Preferably, the first end is substantially closed (i.e. has a solid cover or base). Optionally, the second end of the strut is connected to the first end of the anchor post. Optionally, the first end comprises an aperture (e.g. extending through the solid cover or solid base) wherein the aperture is configured to receive a portion of the strut to connect the anchor post to the strut. For example, the aperture may be configured to receive a protrusion extending from the second end of the strut. The aperture may be any suitable and / or desirable shape. Preferably, the aperture extends through the first end and part of a wall. In other words, the aperture comprises a slot extending part way along at least one of the walls. Preferably, the shape of the aperture through the first end is flared inwards (i.e. the aperture shape increases in side from the perimeter of the anchor post towards the centre of the first end). This provides the advantage that the aperture may allow the angle between the strut and the anchor post to vary, thus accommodating the different angles of the strut as the strainer post and strut are inserted into the ground. Optionally, the anchor post is arranged to extend perpendicularly from and / or into the ground. As such, the longitudinal axis of the anchor post is preferably parallel to the longitudinal axis of the strainer post. Optionally, the anchor post comprises a (e.g. one or more) thrust plate(s) extending perpendicularly from the hollow elongate body of the anchor post. Preferably, the anchor post comprises a plurality (e.g. two or more) thrust plates. Optionally, the anchor post comprises two thrust plates extending perpendicularly from the hollow elongate body of the anchor post. Optionally, the (e.g. each) thrust plate is an elongate plate, preferably having a substantially rectangular shape or trapezoidal shape. As such, the thrust plate(s) (e.g. each) comprise a longitudinal axis (e.g. along the length of the rectangular or trapezoid shaped plate forming the thrust plate). Optionally, the longitudinal axes of the thrust plate(s) is / are arranged to be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hollow elongate body. As such that the thrust plate(s) optionally extend along the hollow elongate body in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the hollow elongate body. The thrust plate(s) advantageously increase the surface area of the anchor post and thus increases the surface area of the anchor post engaging with the ground. This increase in surface area allows a greater strain to be exerted on the strainer post (to which the anchor post is attached via the strut) without resulting in the post moving within the ground. This therefore improves the stability of the Stainer post, and indeed, the whole fence system. Optionally, the strainer post is wholly or partially made from a metallic material (e.g. steel). For example, the post body and / or the plate(s) and / or the strut and / or the anchor post are metallic (e.g. made from a metal material, e.g. made from steel). Optionally, the fence assembly comprises: at least two (e.g. two or more, e.g. two, e.g. three) strainer posts, optionally two of the strainer posts may be arranged at either end of the fence assembly, and one or more strainer posts may be positioned at intermediate positions between the two strainer posts at either end to improve the tensioning of the fencing wire across the fence assembly; one or more (e.g. a plurality of) fence posts arranged between two of the at least two strainer posts; one or more (e.g. a plurality of) locking elements associated with each of the fence posts; and one or more (e.g. a plurality of) fencing wires extending between the two strainer posts, wherein each fence wire is received in a wire receiving aperture on each of the fence posts such that the fence posts support the fencing wire between the two strainer posts. In a fifth aspect of the present invention, a locking element for holding a fencing wire within a fence post is provided. The locking element comprising a first part, a second part, and a third part. Optionally, the first part, the second part and the third part (e.g. at least partially) lie in a first plane, a second plane and a third plane respectively (wherein the first, second and third planes intersect at a line but are not the same plane). Optionally, part of the second portion lies in a second plane. Optionally, the first part extends from the second part at an angle from +90 to +150 degrees, such that the first part lies in a first plane that bisects the central plane from +90 to +150 degrees. Optionally, the third part extends from the second part at an angle from -90 to +150 degrees such that the third part lies in a third plane that bisects the central plane from +90 to +150 degrees. The fifth aspect thus provides a specific embodiment of a locking element that may be used within the fence post of the first or second aspects, and as part of the fence assembly of the third or fourth aspects. it will be appreciated that any suitable and / or desirable number and / or arrangement of the following optional features may be combined in any suitable and / or desirable way to provide an embodiment falling within the scope of the fifth aspect of the invention. Optionally, the first part extends from the second part at an obtuse angle, e.g. an angle from between +100 degrees to +135 degrees, e.g. from between +110 degrees to +130 degrees, e.g. approximately +120 degrees. Optionally, the third part extends from the second part at an obtuse angle, e.g. an angle from between -100 degrees to -135 degrees, e.g. from between -110 degrees to -130 degrees, e.g. approximately -120 degrees. Optionally, the locking element is formed from a continuous length of wire. Optionally, the length of wire is bent to provide a first u-bend, a second u-bend and a third u-bend extending (e.g. at least partly, e.g. at least partly in parallel with) in the first, second and third planes respectively. Optionally the first u-bend has a first end that forms a first protrusion for engaging with a fence post to hold the locking means within the fence post, and a second end that is continuous with a first end of the second u-bend. Optionally, the third u-bend has a first end that is continuous with a second end of the second u-bend, and a second end that forms a second protrusion for engaging with a fence post to hold the locking means within the fence post. Optionally, the locking element is made of metal, e.g. the continuous length of wire is a metal wire. However, it will be appreciated that the locking element could be made from any suitable and / or desirable material. For example, the locking element could be made from a polymeric material, a plastic material or a composite material. Whichever material is chosen must however be flexible and / or resilient enough such that it can be pivoted and / or apply a bias without breaking in use. In a sixth aspect of the present invention, a fence post protector is provided for preventing the fence post of the first or second aspect from being warped or bent as a top of the fence post is subjected to a force to insert the fence post into the ground. The fence post protector comprises: a blind channel complementary in shape to at least part of the profile of the fence post, wherein the top of the fence post is configured to slot within the channel; and a base portion configured to engage with the instrument being used to apply the force to the fence post such that the base portion cushions the force being applied to the fence post; wherein the fence post protector is made from a polymeric material. Post-protectors are an important part of implementing a fence assembly as applying a force directly to a fence post (e.g. the fence post of the first or second aspect) can result in the fence post warping or bending under the force applied, especially when the ground is dry or hard. As such, conventionally, post-protectors for metal fence posts have been made from metal. However, the inventors have surprisingly found that a polymeric material may be successfully used (in place of metal) for a post protector without resulting in bending offence post as it is inserted. Indeed, it was previously considered that a polymeric material would either break, shatter or provide insufficient protection to the fence post during insertion processes. However, forming the fence post protector from a polymeric material provides a recyclable fence post protector that can be made more economically that a corresponding metal post protector. Optionally, the fence post protector is configured to enclose the fence post. In other words, the blind channel is complementary in shape to the whole profile of the fence post such that the entire end of the fence post is received within the blind channel. Alternatively, the fence post protector may be arranged such that only part of the end of the fence post is received within the fence post protector. For example, the blind channel may have a shape complementary to the shape of the one or more fence post walls but does not include a portion arranged to receive the end of the protrusion. As such, optionally, when the fence post protector is received on the end of a fence post, the protrusion is not enclosed within the fence post protector. Optionally, the polymeric material is a polyamide. For example, the polymeric material may be a nylon based material such as nylon-6, nylon-66. For example, the polymeric material may be poly-paraphenylene terephthalamide. Optionally, the polymeric material may be a polymeric resin material comprising reinforcing components dispersed therein. For example, the polymeric resin material may be a polyurethane resin material. For example, the reinforcing components dispersed within the resin material may be reinforcing fibres or powders. For example, the reinforcing component may be a metallic (e.g. aluminium) powder material. Optionally, the fence post protector is formed by injection moulding the polymeric material into a mould. Brief Description of Drawings Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figures 1A and 1B show the profile of a fence post in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figures 2A and 2B show the profile of a fence post in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figures 3A-3D show the profiles of fence posts in accordance with embodiments of the present invention; Figure 4A shows a front view of a fence post with a locking element in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4B shows a side-on view of the same fence post with a locking element; and Figures 4C and 4D show photographs of the fence assembly from side-on and top-down views comprising the fence post and locking element shown in Figure 4A and 4B. Figures 5A, 5B. 5C and 5D show views of a locking element in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figures 6A-6D show different possible locking elements in accordance with embodiments of the present invention; Figure 7 shows a strainer post arrangement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 shows a portion of a strainer assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 shows a blade for use as part of a strainer post in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and Figures 10A-10C shows different views of a fence post protector in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Description The following description presents particular examples and, together with the drawings, serves to explain principles of the disclosure. However, the scope of the invention is not intended to be limited to the precise details of the examples, since variations will be apparent to a skilled person and areas deemed to be covered by the description. Terms for components used herein should be given a broad interpretation that also encompasses equivalent functions and features. In some cases, alternative terms for structural features may be provided but such terms are not intended to be exhaustive. Descriptive terms should also be given the broadest possible interpretation; e.g. the term "comprising" as used in this specification means "consisting at least in part of" such that interpreting each statement in this specification that includes the term "comprising", features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprises" are to be interpreted in the same manner. The description herein refers to examples with particular combinations of features, however, it is envisaged that further combinations and cross-combinations of compatible features between embodiments will be possible. Indeed, isolated features may function independently as an invention from other features and not necessarily require implementation as a complete combination. Figure 1A shows the profile of a fence post 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The fence post 100 has a hollow elongate body formed by a front wall 110, two side walls 120 and a back wall 130 which define a longitudinal cavity 140 with a longitudinal axis 125. In the embodiment shown, the walls 120, 130, 140 of the hollow elongate body are substantially perpendicular to each other such that the hollow elongate body has substantially quadrilateral (e.g. square or rectangular) cross-sectional shape 105 (as shown in Figure 1B). The fence post 100 thus has a three dimensional shape defined by a length (parallel to the longitudinal axis 125), a width Bw (defined perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and extending between the two side walls 120) and a depth Bd (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and extending between the front wall 110 and the back walls 130). A protrusion 150, having a front wall 160 and two sidewalls 170, extends substantially perpendicularly from the front wall 110 (i.e. the two protrusion side walls 170 extend out from the front wall 110 at substantially 90 degrees) to define a protrusion cavity 180 with a longitudinal axis 155. The protrusion cavity 180 is thus defined by the protrusion 150 walls but is continuous with the longitudinal cavity 140 of the hollow elongate body. As shown in Figure 1B, the walls 160, 170 are substantially perpendicular to each other such that it forms a substantially quadrilateral (e.g. square or rectangular) cross-sectional shape. The protrusion 150 has length dimension (parallel to the longitudinal axis 155), a depth dimension pa (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 155 and extending between the protrusion front wall 160 and hollow elongate body front wall 110) and a width dimension pw (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 155 and extending between the two side walls of the protrusion 150). Thus, as shown in Figure 1 A, the width of the protrusion pw (at its widest point, i.e. at the base of the protrusion 150) is narrower than the width of the front wall 110. Similarly, the width of the protrusion cavity Cw is narrower than the maximum width Lw (i.e. at its widest point) of the longitudinal cavity of the hollow elongate body. The front wall 110 may thus be considered to be the front face of the hollow longitudinal cavity that can be seen when looking at the hollow elongate body along an axis perpendicular to the protrusions longitudinal axis 155 and parallel to the protrusion depth pd. In other words, the front facing portion may be considered to be the part of the hollow longitudinal body extending from the base of the protrusion 150 to the widest part (having width dimension Bw) of the hollow elongate body. In Figure 1A, because the sidewalls 120 are substantially perpendicular to the front wall 110, the front wall 110 extends to the maximum width Bw such that the side walls substantially not visible when viewing the fence post 100 front directly infront of the protrusion. As such, it will be clearly understood that a protrusion 150 within the meaning of the present invention must have a wall that extends substantially perpendicularly from another wall of the hollow elongate body. The back wall 130 comprises a longitudinal slit 135 that provides an opening to the protrusion cavity 180 via the longitudinal cavity 140. The longitudinal slit 135 is further defined by the two bent over portions 190. These portions 190 are not essential but may be a biproduct of the process of forming the hollow elongate processes, e.g. from a single metal sheet using rollers. The backwall 130 may therefore not include these portions without altering how the fence post 100 functions or interacts with other components of a fence assembly. However, by bending the backwalls 130 over to form portions 190, there are no sharp edges associated with longitudinal slit 135 which improves the fence posts usability as there is a reduced risk of scratching or cutting a users hand when they insert a locking element into the protrusion cavity 180. This may also be achieved by milling or sanding down the edges of the longitudinal slit 130, however this introduces further processing steps which increases costs associated with the manufacturing process. Figures 2A and 2B shows another profile of a fence post 200 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As with the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the fence post 200 has a hollow elongate body formed by a front wall 210, two side walls 220 and a back wall 230 which define a longitudinal cavity 240. However, unlike fence post 100, the front wall 210 is non planar and comprises a planar portion 212, from which the protrusion 250 extends, and an angled portion 215 which connects the front wall 210 to the side walls 220. The side walls 220 also comprise a shallow surface feature (or protrusion) 222, unlike the sides walls 120 of the fence post 100 shown in Figure 1. It will be appreciate that the shallow protrusions 222 shown are not the only surface features that may be included as part of the walls of the hollow elongate body. For example, the walls may be curved or undulating or comprise ridges and / or channels or any other suitable and / or desirable features. However, in spite of the differences in the shape of the front wall 210 and side walls 220, the hollow elongate body of fence post 200 (like the fence post 100 shown in Figure 1) may still be considered to have a substantially quadrilateral (e.g. square or rectangular) cross-sectional shape 205 (as shown in Figure 2B). A protrusion 250, having a front wall 260 and two sidewalls 270, extends substantially perpendicularly from the planar portion 212 of the front wall 210 (i.e. the two protrusion side walls 270 extend out from the front wall portion 212 at substantially 90 degrees) to define a protrusion cavity 280. The protrusion cavity 280 is thus defined by the protrusion 250 walls but is continuous with the longitudinal cavity 240 of the hollow elongate body. As shown in Figure 2B, the protrusion has a substantially quadrilateral (e.g. square, e.g. rectangular) cross-sectional shape (just like the embodiment shown in Figure 1). As with the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the protrusion 250 extends from the front wall 210 at a substantially perpendicular angle (i.e. the sidewalls 270 form a substantially 90 degree angle with the planar portion of the front wall 212 to which the protrusion 250 is adjacent. As such, the protrusion cavity 280 is narrower at its widest point Cw than the longitudinal cavity at its widest point Lw. In fact, the protrusion cavity 280 is narrower at its widest point Cw than the longitudinal cavity at its narrowest point Ln. Similarly, the hollow elongate body is wider at its widest point Bw than the protrusion 250 at its widest point pw. Figures 3A-3D show a variety of different profiles of fence posts that provide embodiments of the present invention. Figure 3A shows a fence post 300 whereby the front wall of the fence post is formed two sloping surface 310, 310’ from which the protrusion 350 extends. Other than this difference, the fence post 300 shown in Figure 3A comprises the same features as the fence post 100 shown in Figure 1A. Figure 3B shows a fence post 400 having a planar front wall 410, two planar side walls 420 substantially perpendicular to the front wall 410, and a planar back wall 430. Unlike the embodiments shown in Figures 1,2 or 3A, the back wall does not comprise a bent over portion. The protrusion 450 extending from the front wall 410 has a triangular cross-sectional shape, where the tip of the triangle forms the front facing portion 460 that includes the first aperture and the two walls 420 form laterally facing portions that include the second aperture. Figure 3C shows a fence post 500 having a cylindrical hollow elongate body formed by wall 510. The wall 510 thus forms the front face, the side faces and the back faces of the fence post 500. A protrusion 550 extends from the wall 510 and a longitudinal slit 355 extends through the wall 510 on a side the opposite side to the protrusion 550. The protrusion 550 has a substantially quadrilateral (e.g. rectangular, e.g. trapezoidal) cross-sectional shape. Figure 3D shows a fence post 600 having a substantially identical hollow elongate body to the fence post 300 shown in Figure 3A. The only difference between the embodiments shown in Figure 3A and 3D is thus the shape of the protrusion 650 extending from the front wall 610. In the embodiment shown, protrusion 650 has a substantially semi-circular cross-sectional shape having a front facing portion 660 and two laterally facing portions 620. It will be appreciated that the embodiments described above are exemplary in nature only and are thus not limiting to the scope of the present invention. For example, the same of any of the protrusions shown in Figures 1, 2 and 3 may be combined with any of the hollow elongate bodies shown. Similarly, any of the embodiments may include bent over back wall portions or not. Figure 4A shows a front view of a fence post 700 with a locking element 750 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention and Figure 4B shows a side-on view of the same fence post 700 with the locking element 750. As shown, the front wall 710 (which has a width equal to the maximum width Bw of the hollow elongate body) comprises a protrusion 720 extending substantially perpendicularly therefrom. The protrusion 720 includes a wire receiving aperture 730 along its length. The wire receiving aperture 730 is formed by a first aperture 732 in the form of a slit extending along and through the front wall 722 of the protrusion 720. The wire receiving aperture 730 further includes a second aperture 734 (having a substantially ovular cross-section) that extends through both of the protrusion sidewalls 724. As such, the a length of fencing wire may be move horizontally through the first aperture 732 into the protrusion cavity 740 and then vertically within protrusion cavity 740 via the second aperture 734. As shown in Figure 4B, the bottom 732a of the first aperture 732 is vertically offset from (i.e. above the) bottom 734a of the second aperture 734. Similarly, the top 732b of the first aperture 732 is vertically offset from (i.e. below the) top 734b of the second aperture 734. As such, a fencing wire that is engaged with the bottom 734a of the second aperture 734 cannot be moved horizontally out of the protrusion cavity 740. Instead, horizontal movement of the fencing wire would result in the fencing wire engaging with the sidewall 734c of the second aperture 734. In addition to the fence post, Figures 4A and 4B show a locking element 750 received within the protrusion cavity 740. The locking element 750 includes a pair of protrusions 752 which are received within holding apertures 760 extending through the sidewalls 724 of the protrusion 720. The holding apertures 760 are located proximate to the second aperture 734 such that, when the locking element 750 is in position, a first part 754 of the locking element 750 extends across the first aperture 732 and engages with an inner wall of the protrusion 740 (not shown) on the other side of the first aperture 732 to the holding apertures 760. As a result, the first part 754 obstructs the first aperture 732. As such, the locking element 750 is shown in the locking elements first position and would prevent a fencing wire from being moved horizontally out of the protrusion cavity 740 via the first aperture 732. Figure 4C shows a photograph of the fence post 700 shown in Figures 4A and 4B with a fencing wire 760 extending through the wire receiving aperture 730. As shown, the fencing wire 760 is held within, and engages with the bottom 734a of, the second aperture 734. Thus, as will be appreciated, horizontal movement of the fencing wire 760 would not result in the fencing wire 760 being removed from the wire receiving aperture 730 as the first aperture is vertically offset above the bottom 734a of the second aperture. Thus, to remove the fencing wire 760, the fencing wire needs to be vertically to at least a height parallel with the bottom 732a of the fencing wire and then horizontally out thereof (when the locking element 750 is in the second position such that the first portion 754 does not obstruct the first aperture 732). Figure 4D shows a top-down view of the fence assembly shown in Figure 4C. From this view you can see the arrangement of the locking element 750 (which will be described in more detail in relation to Figure 5 below) extending into the protrusion cavity 840. Figures 5A, 5B, 5C and 5D show views of a locking element 800 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the embodiment shown, the locking element 800 is formed from a continuous length of wire 805 that is bent to provide a first part 810, a second part 820 and a third part 830, wherein the first part 810 extends from the second part 820 at an angle p (wherein p is shown to be obtuse in this example), and the third part 830 extends from the second part 820 at an angle a (wherein a is shown to be obtuse (and substantially equal to P) in this example). As shown in Figure 5C, the locking element 800 may be considered to be defined in a plurality of planes. The first part 810 lies in a second plane defined by axes cd. The third part 830 lies in a third plane defined by axes bd (wherein the first plane and the third plane bisect at axis d). The second part 820, is substantially centred on axis a and comprises a portion 825 that is defined in a plane defined by axes ad, and two portions 824, 826 which are defined in planes parallel to, but offset either side of, the plane defined by axes ac (or ab). As shown in Figures 5A-5D, the locking element 800 is formed by bending the continuous length of wire to provide a first u-bend (forming the first part 810), a second u-bend (forming the second part 820) and a third u-bend (forming the third part 830). The first and third u-bends each lie in substantially one plane. The first part 810 has a first end has a first end 812 that is bent to form a first protrusion 840 for engaging with an aperture on the fence post to hold the locking element 800 within the protrusion cavity (as shown in Figures 4A-4C). The first part 810 also has a second end 818 which connects with the second part 820. Extending between the first end 812 and the second end 818, the wire is bent to provide the first u-shape formed by a first leg 814 (extending from the first end 812), an engaging portion 815 (that extends substantially perpendicularly to the first leg 814 but lies within the same plane) and a second leg 816 that is substantially parallel to the first leg 812. It will be appreciated that, with cross-reference to Figure 4A-4C, it is the first leg 812 and the second leg 814 that is visible through the wire receiving aperture 730 when the locking element 800 is in position within the protrusion cavity 740. The engaging portion 815 is thus the part of the locking element 800 that engages with the internal wall of the protrusion cavity 840 below the bottom 732a of the first aperture 732 such that the first part 810 obstructs the first aperture 732 and prevents a fencing wire 860 from being able to pass therethrough. In the embodiment shown, the third part 830 has an identical but inverted (e.g. mirrored) structure to the first part 810. I.e. the third part 830 has a first end 832 and a second end 838 with a length of wire bent to provide a u-bend (having a first leg 834, a second leg 836 and an engaging portion 835) extending therebetween. It will be appreciated that this mirrored or inverted structure is not essential to the working of the invention and in some embodiments the third part 830 may have a different structure to the first part 810. However, the first part 810 and the second part 830 being substantially identical does provide an advantage of improved usability as the locking element can be used either way round (i.e. the first part 810 can be used as the third part 830 and vice versa), thus improving the efficiency and easy of assembly. The two engaging portions 815, 835 of the first part 810 and third part 830 are thus designed to engage with the inside of the protrusion front wall on opposite sides of the first aperture 732. As such, when the locking element 800 is in the first position, both engaging portions 815, 835 will be in contact with the inside wall. By way of contrast, the when the locking element 800 is in the second position, the engaging portion 815 of the first part 810 is moved away from the inside wall to provide a gap through which a fencing wire 860 can pass to access the first aperture 732. In contrast, the engaging portion 835 of the third part 830 remains engaged with the inside wall in the second position. The second part 820 extends between the first part 810 and the third part 830 and connects the first parts second end 818 to the third parts first end 832. The second part 820 thus provides an extension of the locking element 800 that extends towards the longitudinal cavity of the hollow elongate body when the locking element 800 is in position within the fence post (as shown in Figure 4D). As such, the second part 820 substantially provides a lever which can be used accessed via the longitudinal slot 735 to pivot the locking element 800 between the first position and the second position. As shown, the second u-bend lies in multiple planes where by the horizontal portion 825 of the u-bend extends out of the plane that defines one or both of the legs of the u-bend. This provides the advantage that legs 824, 826 of the second u-bend can be substantially moved (e.g. squeezed) together such that the first part 810 and the third part 830 can be moved laterally with respect to each other. As a result, the protrusions 840, 840’ can be easily removed from the holding means in the fence post by squeezing the legs 824, 826 of the second u-bend together. As such, the locking element 800 can be removably attached to the fence post. Figures 6A-6D show different possible locking elements in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. Figure 6A shows an embodiment similar in form to the embodiment shown in Figure 5 but formed from a continuous strip of material bent to form a plurality of v-bends (although other forms of bends can be used, e.g. u-bends comprising a substantially planar portion). The first part 910 is thus formed by two planar legs 914, 916 with an engaging portion 915 formed at the bend therebetween. The first part 910 further comprises a protrusion 940 as an attachment means for attaching the locking element 900 to the fence post. The third part 830 has the same structure as the first part 810 but includes the protrusion 840 extending out the opposite side of the locking element 900. The second portion 820 (comprising two legs 824, 826) extends between the first 810 and third 830 parts. Figure 6B shows a locking element 1000 formed by a plurality of elongate portions 1011, 1021, 1031 that extend from a central point to provide the first 1010, second 1020 and third 1030 parts as well as the attachment means 1040, 1040’. This embodiment may be formed in any suitable and / or desirable way, e.g. by welding the different elongate portions together, by metal casting, or by injection moulding. Thus, unlike the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 5, the first part 1010 comprises only one leg extending across the first aperture when the locking element 1000 is in position within the protrusion cavity. Figures 6C shows a locking element 1100 similar in form to Figure 6B whereby the elongate portions are substituted for plate like portions 1111, 1121, 1131. Figure 6D shows a locking element 1200 where the first 1210 and third 1230 portions are not symmetrical or mirror images of each other. Instead, the third part 1230 is formed by a sloped portion 1231 extending from the second part 1220 formed by plate 1221 at an obtuse angle (i.e. extending from the second part towards an internal wall of the protrusion cavity when in position within the fence post) and a planar portion 1232 (configured to be planar with, or parallel to, the internal wall of the protrusion of the fence post). As such, in this embodiment, the planar portion 1232 provides increased engagement with the internal wall of the protrusion such that, when the locking element 1220 is moved from the first position to the second position, the angle between the planar portion 1232 and the sloped portion 1231 decreases. As such, in the second position, the third part 1230 is spring loaded such that, when the force exerted on the second part 1220 is removed, the third part 1230 acts to bias the locking element 1200 back to the first position to return the angle between the planar portion 1232 and the sloped portion 1231 to its resting or equilibrium state. Figure 7 shows a strainer post assembly 1300 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The strainer post assembly 1300 of this example is shown to be provided at a terminal end of a fence assembly whereby the strainer post 1310 bears a significant portion of the tension applied to the fencing wires 1320 to provide them in a taught arrangement. However, in other embodiments, strainer post assemblies may be provided at intermediary points along a fence assembly and is thus not limited to being provided at the end of an assembly. As such, in some embodiments, the strainer post assembly may comprise a plurality of struts extending in different (e.g. opposing) directions to help counteract tensioning forces from multiple directions. The strainer post assembly is formed by a strainer post 1310 and a strut 1350 extending from the strainer post towards the ground 1330 at an angle and an anchor post. The strainer post 1310 comprises a post body 1312 with an insertion end 1314 that is inserted into the ground 1330. Thus, when installed, the post body 1312 has a portion 1316 that extends above the ground 1030 and a portion 1318 that is inserted within the ground 1330. Portion 1318 further includes two plates 1340 (arranged on opposite sides of the post body 1312) to help secure the post body 1312 within the ground. Figure 8 shows a view of insert 1350 in Figure 7 to show a more detailed view of the plates 1340. As shown, each plate 1340 has a first plate portion 1342 that extends from the post body 1312 at an angle to provide an increasing gap 1346 between the first plate portion 1342 and the post body 1312 when moving away from the insertion end 1314. Each first plate portion 1342 thus forms a wedge shaped gap 1346 that provides an anti-lift means to the strainer post 1312 due to the fact that the gap 1346 is filled with ground material (e.g. soil) which, in turn, increases the force and pressure exerted on the strainer post 1310 by the ground to keep it within the ground. Returning to Figure 7, the first portion 1318 further includes fourthrust plates 1315 (three of which that can be seen via the angle shown, the fourth being immediately behind the post body 1310). The thrust plates 1315 have a substantially trapezoidal shape which extend along the fence post 1310 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the fence post 1310. As such, the thrust plates 1315 essentially form a plurality of fins extending out from the post body 1310. The strainer post 1310 has a strut 1350 that extends from the strainer post 1312 towards the ground 1330. The strut 1350 thus helps to support the strainer post 1312 and counteracts the pulling tensioning forces that are being subjected to the strainer post 1310 by the tension of the fencing wires. The strut 1350 has a first end 1352 which engages with the post body 1312 and a second end 1354 that is arranged to be proximate to the ground 1330. Preferably this end 1352 is angled to complement the angle of extension. As such, the end 1352 sits flush with the post body 1312 to improve contact, and thus the integrity of the support offered by the strut 1350. The strut 1352 may engage with the ground directly. However, in the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the second end 1354 of the strut engages with the ground indirectly via an anchor post 1360. The anchor post 1360 is shown in Figure 9. Thus, with reference to Figures 7 and 9, the second end 1354 of the strut 1350 includes a protrusion which is received within an aperture on the anchor post 1360. The aperture is formed by a portion 1366 that extends through the top end 1361 and a portion 1368 that extends through the wall of the hollow elongate post body 1362. The second end 1363 of the anchor post is open such that the second end 1363 provides access to the hollow elongate body 1362 such that the anchor post 1360 can be inserted within the ground. The aperture thus further acts as a means to allow air to escape the hollow elongate body 1362 (and thus prevent pressure build up) as the anchor post 1360 is inserted in the ground and the air within the hollow elongate body 1362 is displaced by soil. The anchor post 1360 further includes two thrust plates 1364 arranged to extend on opposite sides of the hollow elongate body 1362 such that the two thrust plates 1364 are substantially at 180 degrees with respect to each other. Figures 10A-10C shows different views of a fence post protector 1400. As shown in Figure 10C, the fence post protector 1400 is inserted on the end of a fence post 1450 to prevent the fence post 1450 from being warped or bent as it is inserted into the ground. The fence post protector 1400 comprises a body that 1430 includes a channel 1410 which corresponds to the profile of the fence post 1450 to which the fence post protector 1400 is to be inserted. The channel 1410 is blind (i.e. it does not extend through the fence post protector 1400) such that there is a base portion 1435 defined at the top of the fence post protector that provides an engaging surface 1420 for receiving a force required to insert the fence post 1450 into the ground. The channel 1410 also includes a locking element receiving portion 1440 such that the fence posts 1450 can be inserted into the ground with the locking elements pre-installed. It will be appreciated that, as a force is applied to the top surface 1420, the base portion engages with the walls of the fence post 1450 which can result in an indentation (or wearing of the material) of the base portion. As such, the depth of the base portion of the fence post protector 1400 can be considered to correspond with the lifetime of the fence post protector 1400. As such, the fence post protector 1400 of the present invention may be manufactured cheaply and efficiently (e.g. using injection moulding techniques) with a range of lifetimes. Furthermore, as the material used is polymeric based, the fence post protector is entirely recyclable such that disposable fence post protectors (e.g. suitable for one installation) can be provided with a fence system without negatively impacting the environment. In the embodiment shown in Figures 10A-10c, the fence post protector 1400 does not fully enclose the fence post 1450. Instead, the protrusion 1460 of the fence post is received against the base potion 1435 of the fence post protector 1440 but is not itself received within a channel. In other embodiments, the fence post protector fully encloses the fence post 1450 such that the protrusion 1460 is also received within a channel of the fence post protector 1400. It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Many other implementations will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading and understanding the above description. Although the disclosure has been described with reference to specific example implementations, it will be recognised that the disclosure is not limited to the implementations described but can be practiced with modification and alteration within the scope of the appended claims. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative sense rather than a restrictive sense. The scope of the disclosure should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

1. A fence post for a fence assembly, the fence post comprising:a hollow elongate body defining a longitudinal cavity, the hollow elongate body comprising:a hollow longitudinal protrusion defining a protrusion cavity continuous with the longitudinal cavity; anda longitudinal slit configured to provide access to the protrusion cavity;wherein the hollow longitudinal protrusion comprises one or more wire receiving apertures extending into the protrusion cavity, wherein each wire receiving aperture comprises:a first aperture configured to allow a length of fencing wire to be received horizontally into the protrusion channel; anda second aperture configured to allow the length of fencing wire to move vertically within the protrusion channel with respect to the first aperture;wherein the first and second apertures are continuous with each other and arranged such that, when a length of fencing wire is located within the second aperture, the fencing wire cannot be moved horizontally out of the protrusion channel.

2. The fence post of claim 1, wherein the hollow longitudinal protrusion and the longitudinal slit are arranged on opposing sides of the hollow elongate body.

3. The fence post of claim 1 or 2, wherein the width of the hollow longitudinal protrusion is narrower than the width of the hollow elongate body.

4. The fence post of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the hollow longitudinal protrusion has a front facing portion and two laterally facing portions.

5. The fence post of claim 4, wherein the first aperture extends through the front facing portion, and the second aperture extends through both of the laterally facing potions.

6. The fence post of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the hollow longitudinal protrusion is substantially U shaped having a front wall and two side walls.

7. The fence post of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bottom of the first aperture is vertically offset from the bottom of the second aperture.

8. The fence post of any one of the preceding claims, wherein, when a length of fencing wire is received within the second aperture, horizontal movement of a fencing wire results in the length of fencing wire engaging with a wall of the second aperture and / or an internal wall of the hollow longitudinal protrusion.

9. The fence post of any one of the preceding claims, wherein, to remove a fencing wire located within the second aperture, the fencing wire must be moved both vertically and horizontally.

10. The fence post of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aperture is configured such that a length of fencing wire can extend linearly through the hollow longitudinal protrusion.

11. The fence post of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the hollow longitudinal protrusion is further configured to receive a locking element within the protrusion cavity.

12. The fence post of claim 11, wherein the holding means comprises a pair of holding apertures, wherein each holding aperture in the pair is arranged on opposite sides of the hollow longitudinal protrusion.

13. The fence post of claim 11 or 12, wherein the holding means is located proximate to the second aperture.

14. The fence post of claim 11, 12 or 13, wherein the holding means is configured to position the locking element within the hollow longitudinal cavity such that part of the locking element extends across the first aperture to prevent a fencing wire located within the protrusion cavity from being removed from the protrusion cavity via the first aperture.

15. The fence post of any one of claims 11-14, wherein the holding means is configured to releasably hold the locking element within the protrusion cavity.

16. A fence assembly comprising:a fence post as claimed in any one of claims 1-15;one or more fencing wires, wherein each fencing wire comprises a length that is received within one of the one or more wire receiving apertures such that each fencing wire is supported by the fence post;one or more locking elements configured to be received within the protrusion cavity of the fence post proximate to one of the one or more wire receiving aperture;wherein each locking element comprises a first part that is arranged to move between a first position and a second position when the locking element is received within the protrusion cavity;wherein, in the first position, the first part engages with an internal wall of the hollow longitudinal protrusion and obstructs the first aperture such that the length of fencing wire received within the protrusion cavity is prevented from passing through the first aperture;wherein, in the second position, the first part of the locking element is disengaged from the internal wall such that the first aperture is not obstructed and a length fencing wire can pass into or out of the protrusion cavity via the first aperture; andwherein, the first part of the locking element is biased towards the first position by a biasing means.

17. The fence assembly of claim 16, wherein each locking element further comprises a second part connected to the first part, wherein, when the locking element is in the first position:the second part extends towards the longitudinal cavity of the hollow elongate body; andthe first part extends from the second part at an angle from +90 to +150 degrees such that the first part extends across the first aperture to engage the internal wall of the hollow longitudinal protrusion.

18. The fence assembly of claim 17, wherein each locking element further comprises a third part extending from the second part at an angle from -90 to -150 degrees;wherein the third part engages with the internal wall of the hollow longitudinal protrusion on an opposite side of the first aperture to the first part.

19. The fence assembly of any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the third part acts as the biasing means to bias the first part towards the internal wall in the first position.

20. The fence assembly of any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein, to move the first part from the first position to the second position, a force is applied to the second part in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hollow longitudinal protrusion such that the bias is overcome and the first part is disengaged from the internal wall.

21. The fence assembly of any one of claims 16 to 21, wherein each locking element further comprises an attachment means configured to engage with a holding means of the hollow longitudinal protrusion, wherein the attachment means and holding means cooperate to hold the locking element within the protrusion cavity of the hollow longitudinal protrusion.

22. The fence assembly of claim 21, wherein the attachment means comprises a pair of protrusions extending in opposing directions, and the holding means comprises a pair of holding, wherein each holding aperture in the pair of holding apertures are arranged on opposite sides of the hollow longitudinal protrusion.

23. The fence assembly of claim 21 or 22, wherein the attachment means are located proximate to the second portion of the locking element.

24. The fence assembly of any preceding claim, wherein the locking element is formed from a continuous length of wire.

25. The fence assembly of claim 24 when dependent on claim 18, wherein the length of wire is bent to provide three u-bends extending in three different planes, wherein a first of the three u-bends forms the first part, the second of the three u-bends forms the second part and the third of the three u-bends forms the third part.

26. The fence assembly of claim 25, wherein the first u-bend has:a first end that comprises a first protrusion for engaging with part of a holding means for holding the locking element within the protrusion cavity; anda second end continuous with a first end of the second u-bend; and wherein the third u-bend has:a first end that is continuous with a second end of the second u-bend; and a second end that comprises a second protrusion for engaging with part of the holding means.

27. The fence assembly of any preceding claim, further comprising a strainer post assembly, the strainer post assembly comprising:a strainer post comprising:a post body having an insertion end configured to be inserted into the ground, wherein, when the post body is inserted into the ground, the post body comprises a first portion within the ground, and a second portion extending above ground;wherein the first portion comprises a plate, wherein the plate comprises a portion that is configured to extend away from the post body, towards the second portion, at an angle from between 1 and 20 degrees; anda strut extending from the second portion towards the ground, wherein the strut comprises a first end connected to the second portion and a second end arranged to be proximate to the ground.

28. The fence assembly of claim 27, wherein the first portion further comprises one or more thrust plates extending substantially perpendicularly from the first portion, wherein each thrust plate comprises a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the post body.

29. The fence assembly of claim 28, wherein the first portion comprises four thrust plates, wherein each of the four thrust plates is arranged at substantially 90 degrees with respect two of the three other thrust plates.

30. The fence assembly of any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the second end of the strut comprises a protrusion extending therefrom, wherein the second end isconnected to an anchor post configured to be inserted within the ground, wherein the anchor post comprises:a hollow elongate body; andan aperture configured to receive the protrusion such that the anchor post and the strut are connected together.

31. The fence assembly of claim 30, wherein the hollow elongate body of the anchor post further comprises two thrust plates extending perpendicularly therefrom, wherein the two thrust plates have a longitudinal axis that is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the hollow elongate body, and the two thrust plates are arranged at 180 degrees with respect to each other.

32. A locking element for holding a fencing wire within a fence post, the locking element comprising a first part, a second part, and a third part;wherein part of the second portion lies in a second plane;wherein the first part extends from the second part at an angle from +90 to +150 degrees, such that the first part lies in a first plane that bisects the central plane from +90 to +150 degrees; andwherein the third part extends from the second part at an angle from -90 to +150 degrees such that the third part lies in a third plane that bisects the central plane from +90 to +150 degrees.

33. The locking element of claim 29, wherein the locking element is formed from a continuous length of wire bent to provide a first u-bend, a second u-bend and a third u-bend extending in the first, second and third planes respectively.

34. The locking element of claim 30, wherein the first u-bend has:a first end that forms a first protrusion for engaging with a fence post to hold the locking means within the fence post; anda second end continuous with a first end of the second u-bend; and wherein the third u-bend has:a first end that is continuous with a second end of the second u-bend; and a second end that forms a second protrusion for engaging with a fence post to hold the locking means within the fence post.

35. A fence post protector for preventing the fence post of any one of claims 1-15 from being warped or bent as a top of the fence post is subjected to a force to insert the fence post into the ground, the fence post protector comprising:a blind channel complementary in shape to the profile of the fence post, wherein the top of the fence post is configured to slot within the channel; anda base portion configured to engage with the instrument being used to apply the force to the fence post such that the base portion cushions the force being applied to the fence post;wherein the fence post protector is made from a material comprising a polymeric material.

36. The fence post protector of claim 32, wherein the polymeric material is nylon-6.AMENDMENTS TO THE CLAIMS HAVE BEEN FILED AS FOLLOWS12 11 24CLAIMS1. A fence post for a fence assembly, the fence post comprising:a hollow elongate body defining a longitudinal cavity, the hollow elongate body comprising:a hollow longitudinal protrusion defining a protrusion cavity continuous with the longitudinal cavity; anda longitudinal slit configured to provide access to the protrusion cavity; wherein the hollow longitudinal protrusion comprises one or more wirereceiving apertures extending into the protrusion cavity, wherein each wire receiving aperture comprises:a first aperture configured to allow a length of fencing wire to be received horizontally into the protrusion cavity; anda second aperture configured to allow the length of fencing wire to move vertically within the protrusion cavity with respect to the first aperture;wherein the first and second apertures are continuous with each other and arranged such that, when a length of fencing wire is located within the second aperture, the fencing wire cannot be moved horizontally out of the protrusion cavity;where the fence post comprises a locking element for holding a fencing wire within the fence post, the locking element comprising a first part, a second part, and a third part;wherein part of the second part lies in a second plane;wherein the first part extends from the second part at an angle from +90 to +150 degrees, such that the first part lies in a first plane that bisects the second plane from +90 to +150 degrees;wherein the third part extends from the second part at an angle from -90 to -150 degrees such that the third part lies in a third plane that bisects the second plane from -90 to -150 degrees; andwherein the hollow longitudinal protrusion and the longitudinal slit are arranged on opposing sides of the hollow elongate body.

2. The fence post of claim 1, wherein the width of the hollow longitudinal protrusion is narrower than the width of the hollow elongate body.

3. The fence post of any one of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the hollow longitudinalprotrusion has a front facing portion and two laterally facing portions.12 11 244. The fence post of claim 3, wherein the first aperture extends through the front facing portion, and the second aperture extends through both of the laterally facing potions.

5. The fence post of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the hollow longitudinal protrusion is substantially U shaped having a front wall and two side walls.

6. The fence post of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bottom of the first aperture is vertically offset from the bottom of the second aperture.

7. The fence post of any one of the preceding claims, wherein, when a length of fencing wire is received within the second aperture, horizontal movement of a fencing wire results in the length of fencing wire engaging with a wall of the second aperture and / or an internal wall of the hollow longitudinal protrusion.

8. The fence post of any one of the preceding claims, wherein, to remove a fencing wire located within the second aperture, the fencing wire must be moved both vertically and horizontally.

9. The fence post of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aperture is configured such that a length of fencing wire can extend linearly through the hollow longitudinal protrusion.

10. The fence post of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the hollow longitudinal protrusion is further configured to receive the locking element within the protrusion cavity.

11. The fence post of claim 10, wherein the hollow longitudinal protrusion comprises a holding means for holding the locking element within the protrusion cavity, wherein the holding means comprises a pair of holding apertures, wherein each holding aperture in the pair is arranged on opposite sides of the hollow longitudinal protrusion.

12. The fence post of claim 10 or 11, wherein the holding means is located proximate to the second aperture.

13. The fence post of claim 10, 11 or 12, wherein the holding means is configured toposition the locking element within the hollow longitudinal cavity such that part of the locking element extends across the first aperture to prevent a fencing wire located within the protrusion cavity from being removed from the protrusion cavity via the first aperture.

14. The fence post of any one of claims 10-13, wherein the holding means is configured to releasably hold the locking element within the protrusion cavity.12 11 24

Images