It is with great sadness that I report the passing of John Body of Callington who died peacefully at home on Monday 23rd December. John was a much respected Tower Captain at St. Mary’s, Callington and a well known change ringer who pushed the boundaries of advanced method ringing in the East Cornwall area, although he never neglected the established local call change band. RIP John you will be sorely missed. Condolences to Anne and all the family.
I must apologise as unfortunately last month I missed out the Central District’s practice at Kenwyn, following the Standing Committee meeting. Many thanks to all involved with organising and keeping these practices going for Central members.
Adverse weather conditions meant our annual Carol Service was cancelled.
Saturday, 7th December saw the Eastern District hold their annual Quarter Peal Day. All of the 7 quarter peals attempts were successful and it was an enjoyable day apart from the rather inclement/stormy weather. We had a couple of new towers this year – Botus Fleming and SS Nicholas & Faith, Saltash following the installation of new ropes and ringing room carpet. Jerry Burnham scored his first QP since 1997 and there were others with many firsts in the method. Sadly, Anne Body was unable to be with us – this was the first QP day she had missed since it started in 1979!
I would like to congratulate Rosy from Pillaton on achieving her first Quarter Peal which was rung open in memory of John – the pressure was on! She rang really well and this was the longest length of time she had rung. John would have been pleased to see the progress being made by the next generation of method ringers. Also, on the Isles of Scilly, they scored a Quarter Peal of Bob Doubles, 9 years since their last with a local band. Geoff Cook rang his first Full Peal for our Guild at Mabe on the 19th December. Well done to all, great achievements.
Once again our Youth Officer, Claire, is busy putting together a schedule of practices for 2025 for our younger members.
Over the festive period many Towers/Churches have had themed window or Christmas trees dedicated to bells. Good to see that our members are publishing bellringing in this way!
As in previous years the bells at Pillaton were muffled to ring the old year out. Dad and I then ascended the tower to remove the muffles before 12 strikes of the Tenor to welcome in 2025. It was especially nice that Temperance, the youngest member of the Pillaton band, was able to join us for this tradition. Many other towers in the Diocese also rang for the New Year.
My thanks go to all the Guild Officers for their work and support during the last year – roll on 2025!
Happy New Year to everyone and keep ringing!
Owen Borlase
Guild President