Tips and tricks time......... <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
1) In order to light an esbit block with a spark shave a small amount off one end, crush it and then strike a spark into it. It will ignite.

2) I developed a quite potent fire lighter by dipping cotton wool into molten silicon candle wax. Mix in a little wood shaving ( I prefer maya wood but fat wood will do just as well). When it sets, wrap in a suitable jacket that you can ignite. They burn for a very long time depending on the amout that you use.