On Wed, 18 May 2005 07:54:08 GMT, Bob Martin
wrote:

I'm using a 12mm flat wood bit

Those will make it even harder for you.

If you can find an auger, you'll get better support inside the hole. A
carpenter's auger has a squared end to fit into a brace, a scotch auger
has a hole to take a tommy bar - you don't even need the hand drill.