I am delighted that our local ringing magazine, The Westerner, is celebrating it’s 100th edition, and I send a big thank you to all those that have helped over the years with its publication.
Another big achievement was the resident all ladies band that completed a Quarter Peal on the very heavy bells of St.Buryan, these were, Carolyn Howell, Jane Hitchens, Hayley Young, Jo Wenborne, Kathy Arkless and Claire Sowden, well done.
This could be a busy year for bell ringing. Helston Flora Dance is Friday 5th May this year, and if you’re an early bird, Bob Woods may be looking for some extra ringers to start the day off with the bells of Helston ringing from 6.25 – 6.55am. Bob will be out of action, as he’s having an operation on his shoulder, so I hope as you read this, it’s gone well, Bob.
Then the big event, the Coronation of King Charles III on Saturday 6th May. At the time of writing this, I don’t think they have set the times of ringing for this, but I’m sure all the ringing that week will be encouraged to celebrate this occasion, particularly on the Friday, Saturday and Sunday. It would be lovely if everyone can take part in this celebration, including any younger ringers and learners, so they feel part of this. I’m sure the public will love to hear the bells, so it doesn’t matter whether you ring a Peal, Quarter Peal, Rounds and call changes, or a new ringer on the backstroke only, whilst someone catches the Sally ringing rounds. To the public, it’s still nice to hear, and don’t forget to write it in your tower book for future generations to read.
Another year, and if you haven’t done this recently, then give your tower succession planning a thought. It’s always better to have a gradual change over, whether it’s Tower Captain, Sec, Treasurer or bell maintenance/steeple keeper) so they know what’s involved.
Looking forward, the Summer is nearly here, and lockdowns are behind us, so it’s time to fix a date for our Summer outings. These give our new ringers the opportunity to see other towers, (and lovely locations/pubs) and experience different bells from those of their own tower. This can make some apprehensive with different rope lengths, weights of bells, etc, but the principles of a handstroke and backstroke are still the same on any bell, so tell them to concentrate on keeping the rope straight as it goes up and down, with no slackness in the rope, and they should be ok. Outings are also good at building a bond as a band of ringers, and this can be extended by inviting neighbouring ringers to join you for this fun day out.
It’s our Guild ringing event, AGM and famous bell ringers Tea this year at Helston on Saturday 20th May, be sure to come along and cast your vote for our next Guild President, and whoever that may be, I give them my best wishes.
Happy 2023, and happy ringing everyone.
Sam Nankervis
TDGR President.
