Central Council's First Visit to Wales

It was a memorable day for ringing in Wales when, on Whit Tuesday, the president of the Central Council, Mr. Frederick Sharpe, was escorted by the Lord Mayor of Cardiff (Ald. Dr. C. E. Bence) to the platform of the City Hall for the third session of the 24th Council. The procession was representative: there was the Lord Bishop of Llandaff (Dr. Glyn Simon), the Vicar of Cardiff (Canon W. E. C. Thomas) and leading officials of the Llandaff and Monmouth Association of Change Ringers - Mr. T. Stevens, the Ringing Master; Mr. F. J. Hannington, the hon. secretary; and the Rev. Ivor Richards, the hon. treasurer. And on the platform there were the Council's leading officers Canon A. G. G. Thurlow (vice-president), Mr. E. A. Barnett (hon. secretary and treasurer), Mr. F. W. Perrens (hon. librarian) and Mrs. Barnett (assistant hon. secretary).

The proceedings opened with the Lord Mayor extending a warm welcome to Cardiff. "For many of you," he said, "it is your first visit to Cardiff. You knew that its prosperity depended on coal, and I am sure many of you were surprised to find that it is a beautiful and clean city."

He understood that bellringing was one of the oldest arts in the country. The Ancient Society of College Youths was founded in 1637 and had been going ever since. He was very pleased to learn that his own school had a team of bellringers; he felt sure that there was some pleasure in ringing apart from the hard work. The Lord Mayor concluded that he understood it was their first visit. In 1939 they decided to go to Cardiff, but the war intervened and the meeting was cancelled.

The Lord Bishop of Llandaff added his welcome on behalf of the Diocese of Llandaff and the Church in Wales. They had come to them in days of prosperity, and he hoped that the message of the bells would be one of peace, and that it would be more permanent than it seemed at times lately.

It was very encouraging to see the way bell-ringing was coming more and more to the fore, and more and more people, particularly the young, were taking to ringing. Both his sons - the elder 16 - were ringers, and one a fanatical enthusiast. A handbell peal was rung at his house after church on Sunday. He looked in the room afterwards and there were four pairs of smiling eyes telling him that they had brought off the peal.

Of people unconnected with bellringing, some regarded the sound of bells as a call to church, but others regarded ringing as an unmitigated nuisance. He thought they had to exercise some consideration to the latter class as he knew of one town where ringing had ceased because of the objections of the residents to the harsh clashes going on.

The more they explained their art the more sympathy they would get because people were genuinely interested in any art that came from the past, and were prepared to support ringers when once the art was explained to them.

The Bishop concluded by saying how pleased he was to see so many of the Council at church that morning for the celebration of the Holy Communion. (There were 115 present.) He felt it would induce others to go to church if bellringers set them an example. "A welcome to you all to Wales and a blessing on your work."

Another welcome came from Mr. T. Stevens, of Ebbw Vale, he hoped they had enjoyed their ringing and Welsh hospitality. Some of them had heard one of their choirs sing, and he would remind them that Wales was a land of song. At the opening of the Eisteddfod the question was asked "Is there peace?" and the answer was "Yes."

The president said he was particularly glad that during his term of office the Council had paid its first visit to Wales. He had a great liking for Wales, apart from the fact that he married a Welsh girl.

Bells were closely associated with the Celtic saints, and it was the custom to present every bishop with a handbell: in the 10th century they were supposed to be the means of performing miracles.

The Llandaff and Monmouth Association was formed in 1893, largely though the efforts of Mr. Evan Davies. Great names came to his mind in connection with their Association. There was "Newport" Jones, who was secretary for 46 years, and their present secretary, Mr. Hannington, had been in office for some 17 or 18 years, and the Association was well served with its officers, like the Rev. Ivor Richards, Mr. and Mrs. Stevens and Mr. and Mrs. King.

The year 1961 had been a memorable one for ringing. There had been attempts on the extent of Bob Major and the ringing of the record length of 13,440 Spliced Surprise Major in six methods. They had had many publications and there had been the jubilee issue of "The Ringing World" and a tribute to their first editor, John Sparkes Goldsmith, with a pilgrimage to his grave and the attendance afterwards at a service in Guildford Cathedral. He would particularly like to thank the Exercise for their excellent response to his appeal for a National Ringing Day to mark the enthronement of the 100th Archbishop of Canterbury.

The president concluded his speech in Welsh: "Diolch yn fawr am eich croeso I Cymru, am eich croeso I Caerdydd." (Thank you very much indeed for the appreciative welcome to Wales, and in particular to Cardiff.)

As a memento of the Council's visit to Wales the Bishop of Llandaff presented the Council, on behalf of the Association, with a visitors' book.

Thanking the Association, Mr. Sharpe said it was a very fitting gift, and the Council would have inscribed in the book the names of the visitors to their annual meetings. "We shall always have memories of the City of Cardiff and the wonderful generosity of the people of Wales," concluded the president.

The business meeting opened with the report of the hon. secretary as to representation of Societies and subscriptions.

Mr. Barnett said 59 Associations were affiliated to the Council with 162 members. The Council also had 24 honorary and 8 life members, making a total of 194. There were 5 honorary and 2 representative vacancies. All subscriptions had been paid.

Ancient Society of College Youths: Messrs. J. E. Chilcott, J. F. Smallwood, C. G. J. Watts and W. Williams.
Australia and New Zealand Association: Mr. P. M. J. Gray.
Bath and Wells Diocesan Association: Messrs. A. H. Reed, G. Salmon and H. J. Sanger.
Bedfordshire Association: Messrs. S. Foskett and A. E. Rushton.
Cambridge University Guild: Dr. C. M. P. Johnson and Mr. B. D. Threlfall.
Chester Diocesan Guild: Messrs. A. R. Elkins and J. Worth.
Coventry Diocesan Guild: Mrs. D. E. Beamish and Mr. J. L. Garner-Hayward.
Cumberland and North Westmorland Association: Mr. G. McKay.
Derbyshire Association: Messrs. G. A. Halls and A. Mould.
Devon Association: Messrs. B. Bartlett, T. Darch, H. Pidler and A. Tapper.
Devon Guild: Miss B. M. Boyle, Mr. T. G. Myers and Rev. J. G. M. Scott.
Dudley and District Guild: Mr. H. J. Shuck.
Durham and Newcastle Association: Messrs. K. Arthur and D. A. Bayles.
Ely Diocesan Association: Messrs. J. G. Gipson, E. H. Mastin, D. F. Murfet and H. S. Peacock.
Essex Association: Messrs. J. H. Crampion, P. J. Eves, F. B. Lufkin and Miss H. G. Snowden.
Gloucester and Bristol Diocesan Association: Messrs. A. L. Barry, R. G. Hooper, W. B. Kynaston and C. A. Wratten.
Guildford Diocesan Guild: Messrs. A. C. Hazelden, H. N. Pitstow and W. H. Viggers.
Hereford Diocesan Guild: Messrs. A. T. Wingate and G. T. Cousins.
Hertford County Association: Messrs. W. Ayre, R. G. Bell, G. W. Critchley and G. Dodds.
Irish Association: Messrs. F. E. Dukes, J. T. Dunwoody and Mrs. F. E. Dukes.
Kent County Association: Messrs. J. R. Cooper, P. A. Corby, T. Cullingworth and I. H. Oram.
Ladies' Guild: Miss D. E. Colgate.
Lancashire Association: Mr. J. Ridyard.
Leicester Diocesan Guild: Messrs. S. Burton and B. G. Warwick.
Lincoln Diocesan Guild: Messrs. J. Bray, G. E. Feirn, J. Freeman and J. L. Millhouse.
Llandaff and Monmouth Diocesan Association: Mrs. D. J. King and Mr. T. M. Roderick.
London County Association: Mr. and Mrs. H. W. Rogers and Mr. W. G. Wilson.
Middlesex County Association: Messrs. F. T. Blagrove and T. J. Lock.
Midland Counties Guild: Mr. J. W. Cotton.
North Staffordshire Association: Mr. R. S. Anderson.
Norwich Diocesan Association: Messrs. H. W. Barrett, N. V. Harding and Rev. A. G. G. Thurlow.
Oxford Diocesan Guild: Mr. and Mrs. A. D. Barker and Mr. P. Walker.
Oxford Society: Mr. F. A. H. Wilkins.
Oxford University Society: Mr. S. J. Ivin and Dr. J. E. Spice.
Peterborough Diocesan Guild: Messrs B. Austin, E. Billings, P. I. Chapman and E. Nobles.
St. David's Diocesan Guild: Mr. R. Warburton.
St. Martin's Guild, Birmingham: Messrs. G. E. Fearn and F. E. Haynes.
Salisbury Diocesan Guild: Messrs. J. T. Barrett, G. H. Harding and W. C. West.
Sheffield and District Society: Mr. N. Chaddock.
Shropshire Association: Messrs. R. Newton and H. Poyner.
Society of Royal Cumberland Youths: Messrs. D. Beresford and F. E. Hawthorne.
Southwell Diocesan Guild: Messrs. B. M. Buswell and D. H. Rooke.
Stafford Archdeaconry Society: Messrs. G. W. Hughes and B. G. Key.
Suffolk Guild: Messrs. J. W. Blythe, L. G. Brett and C. W. Pipe.
Surrey Association: Messrs. A. P. Cannon, F. E. Collins and W. F. Oatway.
Sussex County Association: Messrs. R. G. Blackman and H. Stalham.
Swansea and Brecon Guild: Mr. G. I. Lewis.
Truro Diocesan Guild: Messrs. W. C. Boucher and D. Burnett.
Universities Association: Miss M. R. Cross.
University of Bristol Society: Dr. T. P. Edwards.
University of London Society: Dr. D. N. Layton.
Winchester and Portsmouth Diocesan Guild: Mr. A. V. Davis, Rev. K. W. H. Felstead and Messrs. J. Hartless and F. W. Rogers.
Worcestershire and Districts Association: Messrs. B. C. Ashford, D. Beacham and W. B. Cartwright.
Yorkshire Association: Messrs. G. Benfield. V. Bottomley and L. W. G. Morris.
Life members: Messrs. F. Sharpe, E. A. Barnett, F. W. Perrens and E. H. Lewis.
Honorary members: Mrs. E. A. Barnett, Messrs. F. I. Hairs, A. A. Hughes, D. Hughes, C. K. Lewis, W. F. Moreton, W. A. Osborn, A. J. Pitman, H. L. Roper, E. C. Shepherd, P. L. Taylor, T. W. White and J. Willis.

Apologies were received from Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher, Mr. and Mrs. R. F. B. Speed, Mr. and Mrs. P. J. Staniforth, Mrs. A. Richardson, the Misses C. C. Marshall, N. G. Williams and R. J. Seabrook, Messrs. J. T. Dyke, J. P. Fidler, G. W. Pipe, L. Stilwell, J. E. Chilcott, H. O. Baker, J. W. Clarke, N. Mallett, B. A. Sollis, E. J. Ladd, C. W. Denyer, G. J. Lewis, J. J. Webb, P. Crook, F. Dunkerley, Rev. R. D. St. J. Smith, J. Acres, T. H. Taffender, F. W. Goodfellow, J. R. Mayne, E. C. Birkett, E. H. Edge, D. H. B. Millward, F. N. Golden, D. J. Smith, C. S. Morris, E. St. C. Wilson, P. N. Bond, F. J. Cullum and J. D. Clarke.

The hon. secretary reported that this was the first meeting Mrs. Fletcher had missed since her election in 1915, and her husband since 1930.

The following new members were presented: Mr. R. Warburton, St. David's Guild; Mrs. F. E. Dukes, Irish Association; Mr. G. T. Cousins, Hereford Diocesan Guild; Mr. E. Billings, Peterborough Diocesan Guild.

The hon. secretary stated that for the election of a life member a two-thirds majority was necessary. The Standing Committee at their meeting the previous night expressed the opinion that the list of life members should not be added to at the present time.

Mr. Brian G. Warwick nominated Mr. Shirley Burton as a life member, and mentioned his services in many directions towards the advancement of ringing, particularly in the field of composition.

On the proposition of Mr. F. E. Dukes the following retiring honorary members were re-elected: Mrs. O. D. Barnett, Messrs. F. I. Hairs, C. K. Lewis, W. A. Osborn, A. J. Pitman and H. L. Roper.

Messrs. Douglas Hughes and F. E. Haynes were elected trustees of the Carter Ringing Machine.

Losses by Death include Noted Ringers

The Council stood while the list of those past and present members who had died since the last meeting was read, viz.: Messrs. R. D. Langford, F. C. Smale, A. F. Martin Stewart, Rev. E. V. Cox, Mr. A. Walker, Rev. E. G. Benson, Messrs. H. Baxter, S. F. Palmer, Rev. R. P. Farrow, Mr. G. W. Jeffs, Rev. J. Kingdon, Mr. A. B. Peck, the Earl of Shaftesbury, Messrs. Alfred King and C. Willshire.

Tributes being invited, Mr. J. F. Smallwood spoke first with a reference so Mr. Albert Walker, "the grand little man." At Stoke-on-Trent last year they conferred on him the highest honour in their power of honorary life membership, and he was only sorry that Mr. Walker did not live long enough to enjoy it. He was a great man, who did more for ringing than most people know.

Mr. Douglas Hughes said Mr. Walker was a great help to him in regard to the Carter Ringing Machine. John Carter promised Albert Walker that he could have the opportunity of ringing the first peal on the machine. To his (Mr. Hughes') lasting regret it was not possible.

Mr. F. Haynes spoke of a 30 years' association with Mr. Walker, and that he valued his membership of the Central Council, having attended 14 meetings.

Mr. A. D. Barker paid tributes to Mr. Martin Stewart, who was very kind to the Council, Preb. E. V. Cox, whom he first met in 1920, and was very kind to him and his wife on their honeymoon; Mr. S. Palmer, Mr. Alfred Peck - a worthy successor to Mr. Cockerell, Mr. Alfred King and the Earl of Shaftesbury.

Mr. W. F. Moreton, in a reference to Preb. E. G. Benson, mentioned his services to Cambridge University Guild, the Clerical Guild and the Hereford Diocesan Guild, of which he was a vice-president and secretary for 20 years.

Mr. P. I. Chapman referred to Mr. Geo. Jeffs' services to the Peterborough Diocesan Guild, and described him as a born organiser. His remarks were endorsed by Mr. S. Foskett, who also mentioned Mr. Harry Baxter, who called the first peal for the Peterborough Guild after its formation in 1934. Mr. E. A. Barnett described Mr. Jeffs as among the best of secretaries.

Mr. Shirley Burton spoke of the loss to the Exercise by the passing of Mr. Ernest Morris, as a practical ringer, author and valued contributor to "The Ringing World."

Speaking of Preb. Cox, the Rev. J. G. M. Scott said his influence for over 50 years on the Guild of Devonshire Ringers they were only just beginning to learn. The Rev. A. G. G. Thurlow mentioned Preb. Cox's work for the Guild of Clerical Ringers. Mr. B. Bartlett expressed the sympathy of the Devon Association and Mr. J. T. Barrett the Salisbury Diocesan Guild's.

Mr. W. G. Wilson called the Council's attention to the death of Mr. Albert Eldred and his work for "The Ringing World."

Mr. T. J. Lock said of Mr. S. Palmer: "He was one of the gentlemen who gave me a very friendly welcome at my first Council meeting." Mr. G. Benfield spoke of Mr. Palmer's thoroughness in everything he did for the Yorkshire Association, and Mr. N. Chaddock acknowledged his work for the Sheffield and District Society.

Mr. A. R. Elkins paid a tribute to the Rev. J. Kingdon, of the Chester Diocesan Guild.

Non-routine Items Reported by Hon. Secretary

Among the non-routine items dealt with during the year, the following are worthy of note:

Dr. Fisher. As agreed last year, a letter of good wishes was sent to Dr. Fisher on his retirement. In his reply the Archbishop added a manuscript note, "In thanking you I thank your Council also." A donation of five guineas was made to his Retirement Presentation Fund.

Swedish Visitor. The programme arranged for Mr. A. V. Jakobson, from Stockholm, at the request of the British Council, was carried out in July. It included attendance at a ringing meeting, service ringing, a handbell ringing demonstration and a visit to the Whitechapel Bell Foundry.

Gramophone Record of Spliced Surprise on Handbells. The remaining copies have now been disposed of, and I would like to record my thanks to Mr. C. W. Woolley for assistance in arranging for its re-issue. It will be seen from the accounts that despite all efforts it has not been possible to obtain payment for several records sent to Australia.

"Symbolic Treatment of False Course Heads." Agreement was reached with Mr. Maurice Hodgson on the terms on which the Council would undertake the sale of this mathematical treatise, which is now available.

Noise Abatement Act. Advice was given in response to one or two queries arising from this Act.

Bow Bells Re-opening. The Council was officially represented by the president at this ceremony. It will be recalled that five guineas was contributed to the fund.

For the tenth year Mr. W. G. Wilson and Miss C. L. Groves have typed and duplicated the report, and once again I record my gratitude to them.

Moving the adoption, Mr. E. A. Barnett said there was one rider he would like to add. He had to thank his wife for her help and his daughter who had helped with the typing. With regard to the gramophone records that had not been paid for, he had received a letter from Miss W. Nichols, of Sydney, stating that the money for two of the three records not paid for had been sent by banker's draft and the matter was being taken up with the banks concerned.

Mr. P. A. Corby, in seconding, wished the secretary and the assistant secretary a very happy day on Wednesday, which would be the 20th anniversary of their wedding day.

Mr. N. Chaddock said he would like to express the Council's grateful thanks to Mr. Wilson for arranging for the duplicating of the minutes. He had done the work for ten years and was willing to continue.

Interest in Carter's Ringing Machine

The trustee, Mr. A. A. Hughes, reported that demonstrations were given to six parties of ringers during the year, totalling 103 visitors, the most in any year since demonstrations re-commenced in 1954. In addition, the machine was given short runs for the benefit of visitors to a series of six lectures entitled "Musical Boxes and Automation," given at the Science Museum during the Christmas holiday. These audiences totalled 624.

At the beginning of the year the Museum authorities installed short wave radio to enable visitors, on payment of a deposit, to have the use of a small receiver to guide them round certain galleries and provide a running commentary upon the exhibits. This has been extended to the acoustics gallery and now includes the Carter Machine. After a brief description, the machine may be heard ringing Stedman Cinques.

Prior to the Christmas lectures referred to, the authorities asked whether their guide lecturers could not be instructed in the use of the machine, principally to enable them to use it with the trustee's permission for the lectures, but also to enable it to be demonstrated to the occasional callers who might ask to hear it. The authorities were persuaded that in fairness to the machine itself and to our demonstrator who is responsible for its maintenance, this would not be a wise move, and the Christmas lecture demonstrations were therefore undertaken by the Council's official demonstrator.

The machine continues to function well, although at two demonstrations during the year touches were not entirely successful. This was due to minor faults in setting and adjustment, and successful touches have subsequently been called round in London, Bristol, Double Norwich, Cambridge and Stedman.

The report was adopted on the proposition of Mr. A. A. Hughes. Seconding, Mr. Anderson expressed the thanks of the Council to Mr. Hughes and Mr. Douglas Hughes.

Sales of Publications show a 25 per cent. increase

The report of the hon. librarian stated that the sales of publications this year show an increase of 25 per cent. on last year's exceptionally high figure. The two new publications, "Ringing for Service" and "Compositions of Stedman Caters and Cinques," are partly responsible for this increase, but it is most gratifying to see a record number of "On Conducting" sold during the year, and a marked increase in the sales of the "Beginner's Handbook" and "Change Ringing on Handbells."

In addition to the two new publications there has been a reprint of the "Doubles Methods," which is still selling very well, and the "Collection of Minor Methods" was in print at the end of the year and on sale in January, 1962. The revision of the "Handbook on the Installation, Preservation and Repair of Bells" is now nearing completion, and the book will soon be printed.

Our thanks are due to Mr. R. W. M. Clouston for a copy of "The Church and Other Bells of Aberdeenshire" for the library, and to Mr. F. E. Dukes for copies of the "Irish Bell News."

Mr. and Mrs. R. F. B. Speed have again had a very busy year with the sales section of the library, yet have also found time to check proofs. Our most hearty thanks are due to them for the valuable work they are doing for the Exercise.

		Copies sold	Stock
Methods Sheets -	D.N.C.B.	20	818
	Stedman	34	664
Preservation of Bells		77	67
Four-way Minor Table		69	111
Handbell Ringing		175	590
Major Compositions		57	118
Collection of Peals, Section III		13	168
Report of Conference, S.P.A.B.		6	59
Doubles Methods		173	1,928
Model Rules		39	605
Village Bells		128	350
Card of instruction - Care of Bells		40	420
Plain Major Methods		83	249
Methods Committee Report		16	51
On Conducting		327	598
Handbook		81	824
Electrical Switchgear Card		13	885
Grandsire Caters		11	10
Beginners' Handbook		1,972	1,251
Ringing for Service		422	578
Stedman Compositions		55	945

		3,811	11,289

Mr. F. W. Perrens moved the adoption and stated that Mr. Speed was not able to be present.

Seconding, Mr. J. L. Garner-Hayward said the Council would be pleased to know that by now Mr. Speed's wife had presented him with another Speed. He felt members should realise the amount of work involved in running the library. They all appreciated what Mr. Perrens and Mr. and Mrs. Speed were doing.

Mt. Brian Warwick said under the will of the late Mr. Morris a number of books were bequeathed to the Council. Where should the books be sent?

Mr. E. H. Lewis said it had been his intention that the Central Council should have the pick of any of his books that they wanted. He had brought four books along with him which he knew the Council did not possess.

The first and the most valuable, of which only three copies existed, was "Tintinnalogia," by Richard Duckworth, printed in 1668. This was the first book in English on ringing. The author, in a preface, said he had recently read a book written by a Dutchman in Latin. Of the three books one was on loan to the British Museum and another on loan to Cambridge University Library, both by Mr. Pearson, of Henley. Mr. Lewis asked that this book should never be sent out on loan.

The second was a book from Melbourne, Australia, containing a number of compositions of peals, mainly of Grandsire Triples, dated 1938. The third was Mr. Trollope's account of the College Youths, written prior to his book. It was typed, and was sent and dedicated to him. The last was a copy of the proceedings of the Royal Philosophical Society, containing an article written by Dr. Allen about bell tones.

The president said there was a memorial to Richard Duckworth in the chancel of Steeple Aston Church, and there was in the parish Duckworth's Well. Duckworth was a close friend of Fabian Stedman. The Bodleian Library would very much like to get this copy. They had one of the 1671 edition. It was a very valuable gift, and he thanked Mr. Lewis most sincerely.

Mr. Wilfrid G. Wilson said he typed the manuscript of Trollope's "College Youths."

Miss M. Cross moved that the Committee responsible for the preparation of the Beginners' Handbook be reappointed and asked to consider whether on the next reprinting a supplement should be included dealing with methods of instruction.

Mr. W. G. Wilson, in seconding hoped that it would be done without increasing the price.

Mr. F. W. Perrens: I cannot say if this can be done without increasing the price. I think it would be best for the Committee to decide whether they want this particular item to be added.

The secretary remarked that only last week he paid £160 for the reprinting of the Handbook.

Mr. F. W. Perrens urged the Committee that if they decided to add to the book to get on with the work at once, else it might be too late.

The hon. secretary reported that Mr. Harold Pitstow had intimated that he desired to resign the trusteeship of the Roll of Honour and that Mr. C. G. J. Watts, a member of the College Youths, who attended St. Paul's Cathedral each Sunday and turned over a page of the roll, be appointed. The Standing Committee endorsed this view, which was carried.

ENCOURAGING PROFIT ON "THE RINGING WORLD"

Your Committee is happy to be able to report a successful year. Circulation has not only been maintained but slightly increased.

Despite a 10 per cent. increase in printing costs, and higher postal rates, there is an encouraging profit balance. Due to the steps taken in increasing the selling price to 8d. the extra printing costs had been provided for. The postal increase could not have been foreseen, but your Committee decided that it should not at present be passed on to postal subscribers.

The Golden Jubilee celebration took place at Guildford and was very well attended. A pilgrimage to the grave of our founder, John S. Goldsmith, was made by a large and representative company. A wreath was placed on the grave by Mrs. F. I. Hairs on behalf of your Committee, and handbells were rung. Evensong at the new Cathedral was attended by upwards of 200, and an enjoyable dinner and social was held in the evening. Your Committee is deeply indebted to Mr. C. W. Denyer for making the arrangements, and his help in carrying them out.

A special issue of "The Ringing World" was well received, and great credit goes to the Editor, Mr. T. W. White, for a most excellent production.

During the year we have considerably increased the number of illustrations in the paper, and this seems to have been generally appreciated. We shall continue our efforts to make it more attractive and to give it a wider appeal.

Our sincere thanks are due to the Editor for his loyal and painstaking service; to his assistant; to Mr. J. E. Jeater, our accountant: to all who have contributed matter for publication; to Mr. H. L. Roper for compiling the index; and finally to those who sent donations towards the cost of producing the paper.

"THE RINGING WORLD"
Balance Sheet, December 31st, 1961

Sundry Creditors £587 2s. 4d. (£637); Postal Subscriptions and other amounts in advance £1,424 0s. 9d. (£1,458); Provision for Income Tax £64 6s. 6d. (£56); Capital Account balance, January 1st, 1961, £5,870 7s. 11d.; Add profit for year £1,261 1s. 6d.= £7,131 9s. 5d. Total £9,206 19s. (£8,021).

Debtors £985 14s. 10d. (£1,034); Investments at Cost £800; 3½% Defence Bonds £800; £800 4% Defence Bonds £800; £1,000 4½% Defence Bonds £1,000; £2,000 5% Defence Bonds £2,000; £1,200 5% Defence Bonds £1,200= £5,800 (£4,800). Cash at Bankers £1,997 2s. 6d.; In hand 14s. 8d.= £1,997 17s. 2d. (£2,017). Amount due from Central Council £423 7s. (£170). Total £9,206 19s. (£8,021).

PROFIT AND LOSS ACCOUNT

Woodbridge Press - Printing £4,829 17s. 9d. (£4,543); Blocks £170 19s. 9d. (£161)= £5,000 17s. 6d.

Editorial Office Expenses - Editor's fees and expenses £538 11s. 5d. (£509); Clerical assistance £192 (£165); Postage and Sundries £21 18s. 5d. (£24)= £752 9s. 10d.

Postal Subscribers - Dispatch of Copies £1,042 1s. 5d. (£922); Addressing and wrappers £306 19s. 6d. (£283)= £1,349 0s. 11d.

Accounts Department - Clerical assistance and expenses £208 (£182); Postage £25 5s. 7d. (£20); Stationery and Sundries £37 4s. 7d. (£31)= £270 10s. 2d.

Moving the adoption of the report, Mr. J. F. Smallwood said it was the first time since his committee took responsibility that he could say they were really happy. Whether that happiness continued, was in their hands. He pointed out that a large proportion of the profit arose from the savings of past years in the form of interest on investment.

Mr. Wilson and Mr. F. I. Hairs both spoke supporting the report and the chairman's statement.

Presenting "The Ringing World" accounts, the honorary treasurer said they would notice on the expenditure side some inevitable increases. Printing and blocks cost £300 extra. There were also increases in Mr. White's department, in despatch of copies and in Mr. Jeater's accounts department. The increase of ½d. in postage had been met in full. On the expenditure side there was a drop of £170 from magazines and publications (newsagents' sales). Postal subscriptions had increased by £850, arising from all paying the 8d. Donations showed a slight increase. They had invested a further £1,000 during the year. He moved the adoption of the accounts.

Mr. V. Bottomley said he had commented previously on the liquidity of "The Ringing World" accounts; although it was difficult to pass judgment on the matter it did seem to him that there was a bit too much money in the bank. He criticised the continued investment in 5 per cent Defence Bonds and pointed out that there were several building societies that would give them 4 per cent tax free for three years. He did not know how long these 3½ per cent Defence Bonds had to go for maturity. It might be worth while considering putting the money into building societies, which ought to produce an extra few pounds.

The honorary treasurer replied that it would not be worth while reinvesting the Defence Bonds. As regards liquidity, these figures were at the end of the year when postal subscriptions were coming in and they naturally had more money in hand.

Dr. D. N. Layton: Although the secretary has said the profit margin is not excessive in relation to all considerations, it seems to me to be a healthy profit in relation to the turnover and I wonder it the £452 as donations is really necessary. It always seemed to me to continue the matter of donations is not good business. We should be grateful to the committee for the work they are doing, but they should try and run "The Ringing World" as a business proposition, and not depend on asking for donations to run the paper for a profit.

Mr. Fred Rogers asked whether the present arrangement of the paper, with peals at the end, was permanent.

Mr. Smallwood replied that the present arrangement was meeting with general approval. Peal ringers would find their peals wherever they appeared in the paper. A well known personality had commented that "The Ringing World" was now set up at backstroke.

Replying to Dr. Layton, Mr. Smallwood said when had the committee asked for donations? Donations were sent by ringers out of the goodness of their hearts, when they saw the committee was in trouble. They had been too proud to ask because people had said they were living on charity. Do not reject a good cause. It would not be such a pretty picture next year. There must be printing increases in wages and also increases in other directions.

Dr. Layton: I would not like to be misunderstood. I am not anti-"Ringing World" or anti-donations. What I am trying to say it that as a long term target, they should try and make it a sound proposition, I heartily endorse people buying extra copies, rather than sending charitable donations.

Mr. P. A. Corby asked if he could be told the name of the author of a letter signed George Denzil, Brasted. The letter seemed to him to be a hoax.

The Editor, replying to a question on circulation, said it varied from week to week. For example, the regretted death of Mr. Ernest Morris increased the sales by 30 or 40 copies. On the question of donations, there was no obligation to publish quarter peals. They were, however, published if accompanied by an order for extra copies or a donation. A newspaper was always searching for additional revenue in these days of increasing prices, and such donations was one method.

Mr. H. L. Roper suggested that a small charge should be made for quarter peals, which would meet the objections of those who did not like the idea of charitable donations.

Mr. R. S. Anderson said, on the question of running "The Ringing World" as a business proposition, that had been the object of the committee since it was formed. They were not like some people who could spend money before they received it. They had got a reserve by blood, sweat and toil over many years. They were trying to make the paper readable and attractive. So far as quarter peals were concerned they appreciated Mr. Roper's remarks. There was no obligation to publish them. If they wanted their sons' or daughters' engagement published they had to pay for it. That was what they were doing with quarter peals. They were not governed by any Government 2½ per cent guiding light. In the past they had cheap service, and now they were trying to give adequate reward for that service.

The honorary secretary: I think I am right in saying approximately 12 months ago.

The president: I think that is a matter of internal arrangement. Mr. White's salary is a matter for the committee.

Mr. D. Beresford: If the Editor's salary is a matter for the committee, surely the income of the paper is a matter for the committee and not the Council.

The final comment came from Mr. Smallwood that the Publications Committee should consider the selling price of their publications.

Central Council Accounts

Sundry Creditors, £588 18s. 10d. (£711); Amounts received in advance, £1,424 10s. 9d. (£1,459) Clement Glenn Fund, £853 4s. 6d. (£830) Provision for Income Tax, £64 6s. 6d. (£56); Capital Accounts: "The Ringing World," £7,131 9s. 5d.; General Fund, £643 5s. 3d.= £7,774 14s. 8d. (£6,464). Total, £10,705 15s. 3d. (£9,520).

Library £10 (£10); Office and Library Equipment, £20 15s. 11d. (£27); Stock of Publications, £470 3s. 6d. (£420); Stock of Records, nil (£24); Debtors and Payments in Advance, £986 15s. 10d. (£1,035); Investments at Cost, £6,562 18s. 4d. (£5,563). Market Value, December 31st, £6,556. Cash at Bank and in hand, £2,655 1s. 8d. (£2,441). Total: £10,765 15s. 3d.

Expenses.- Biography Committee, £8 0s. 3d.; Hon. Secretary, £10; Stationery and Printing, £17 9s. 2d.; Postage and Telephone, £11 2s. 2d.; Office and Library Equipment, written off, £6; Archbishop's Presentation, £5 5s.; Insurances, £1 16s.; Typing, £3 3s.; Binding "The Ringing World," £1 12s. 6d.; Cheque Book, 8s. 4d.; Sundry Expenses, £1 12s. 10d.; Bad debts - Gramophone Account, £3 1s. 6d.; Loss, Gramophone Account, 8s. 10d. Excess of Income over Expenditure, £49 6s. 9d. Total: £119 6s. 4d.

Affiliation Fees, £81; Profit, Publications Account, £38 6s. 4d. Total: £119 6s. 4d.

Creditors: "The Ringing World," £423 7s.; Biographies Committee, £1 16s. 6d.= £425 3s. 6d. (£244½); Affiliation Fee in advance, 10s. (£½); Capital Account Balance, December 31st, 1960, £593 18s. 6d.; Add excess of income for year, £49 6s. 9d.= £643 5s. 3d. (£594). Total: £1,068 18s. 9d. (£839).

Library, £10 (£10); Stock of Publications, £470 3s. 6d.; Office and Library Equipment, £20 15s. 11d.; Payment Insurance in advance, £1 1s.; Cash at Bank, £347 4s. 8d.; Hon. librarian, £217 3s. 8d.; Hon. secretary, £2 10s.= £566 18s. 4d. (£357). Total: £1,068 18s. 9d. (£839).

Stock, January 1st, 1961, £419 18s. 4d.; Purchases: 1,000 "Ringing for Service," £39 10s.; 2,000 "Doubles Methods," £99 12s. 6d.; 1,000 "Stedman Compositions," £70= £209 2s. 6d.; Trade Discount, £2; Postage, £22 14s. 10d.; Stationery, £2 17s. 6d.; Advertisement, "The Ringing World," £20; Profit to General Fund, £38 6s. 4d. Total: £714 19s. 6d.

Sale of Publications, £256 10s. 1d., less discounts, £14 4s.= £242 6s. 1d.; Sundry Receipts, £2 9s. 11d. Stock, December 31st, 1961, £470 3s. 6d. Total: £714 19s. 6d.

Presenting the accounts, the hon. treasurer said the Publications Account showed that they had had an extremely good year. They had continued to issue and reprint publications. Since last Whitsun printing bills had amounted to £770, of which £500 would appear in next year's account. On the General Fund, which had been audited by Messrs. A. A. Hughes and H. N. Pitstow, the excess of income over expenditure of £50 included £38 profit on the publications Account. The Clement Glenn Bequest Account had added £23 of interest. In 1957, £400 British Electrics 4½% had been purchased for £365. These matured in 1967-69 and must be redeemed at par. On the General Fund Balance Sheet the £423 as a creditor to "The Ringing World" was an internal transaction. The reserves to the General Fund were not sufficiently large to pay these large printing expenses, and it was necessary to borrow some of "The Ringing World" money.

Mr. N. Chaddock asked if there were any conditions attached to the Clement Glenn bequest.

The hon. secretary: No, the money was bequeathed for such purposes as the Council may decide.

Mr. Chaddock asked if the money could be used by the Sunday Service and Education Committee to sponsor a new publication or a film.

On the chairman's suggestion it was decided to deal with the matter when the report of the Sunday Service Committee was received.

Mr. R. S. Anderson pointed out that there was a charge of £20 in the Publications Account for advertisements in "The Ringing World." This was included some years past on a resolution of the Council. "The Ringing World" Committee now considered that the advertisements could be inserted free from January 1st, 1962. The Committee asked the librarian to make a close study of the selling prices of publications. They were entitled to make more than £38 profit on the turnover.

The amendment to make no charge for the advertisements was carried, but there was a substantial vote against.

BELLS AND RINGING POPULAR TOPICS

We have perused the large amount of newspaper and other published references to bells and bell ringing and we are most grateful to those who, year after year, keep us supplied with this information.

The matter received during the year may be divided into three main sections - Informatory, Personal and Controversial - as well as some items of general interest.

In the Informative sphere, we find articles and notes published which endeavoured to give the general public some idea of what is involved in bell ringing. For instance, the G.E.C.'s publication "Research Review" included an excellently written article by John Mayne under the heading "Ring Out Wild Bells." (This article has been reviewed in "The Ringing World.") It is one of the best informed ever written and brings the reader from the first principles of bells and ringing, tells how they are rung and proceeds to change ringing. One can almost become a change ringer on reading this discourse without ever actually learning how to handle a bell. In "The Croydon Advertiser" a whole page was devoted to the bells of Croydon Parish Church and its ringers, with prominence given to Frederick E. Collins and photographs of the bells and ringers. There is a lengthy explanation of how changes are rung, and altogether the article is very instructive. A well illustrated article in "The Daily Herald" explained the facts behind "Ringing the Changes"! It described and showed how a bell is rung and the various positions of the rope as the bell swings. There were notes on change ringing and some sound advice about safety in the belfry. Another "Advertiser" (Yorkshire) described the method of teaching a learner to handle a bell and then mentioned how changes are rung. The introduction to this article is about Rotherham Parish Church and its ten bells. Even "The Times" considered an article, "Beginner in a Bell Tower," well worth inclusion, in which it tells of an elderly man in the West Country learning to ring. It talks of "Grandsires" and "Stedman," otherwise it is excellently written. "Ringing the Changes" by Christine Bradburn appeared in "The Lady." It described the arrangement of a bell tower and the mechanics of a bell and it said "the only strength needed in ringing is strength of mind." Unfortunately, a rather patchy article was written for "She" entitled "The Object of the Exercise." It gave a large amount of general information about the Exercise and published at least two good photographs.

Personalities who received publicity included Frederick E. Collins, in the South Eastern Gas Board's House journal, "SEGAS." The article covered his ringing career and his present association with Croydon Parish Church. A photograph was included showing the younger ringers there along with Mr. Collins. The "milestone" reached by Ernest Morris in scoring his 2,000th peal resulted in a special commemorative pamphlet being produced. It gave an historical account of Ernest, a list of the books he had written and recorded his more spectacular peals. The event did not pass unnoticed in the U.S.A., where the American Bell Association published a brochure called "The Bell Tower" and devoted two of its pages to his career as a ringer. It described him as the world's most prolific writer of articles about bells.3.4 Mr. James R. Lawson, of "Overtones," dedicated his Easter Carillon concert at the Riverside Church, New York, to Mr. Morris and this was referred to in "Overtones" itself. "The Dublin Evening Mail" devoted much space to the two oldest ringers at Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin - Fred Scott and Billy Lynch - who have a total of over 110 years of ringing between them. "Stroller" in "The South Wales Echo" related the ringing and business career of one-armed Fred Hannington, secretary of the Llandaff and Monmouthshire Association. Brief references were also made to Mr. and Mrs. David King, as well as to other members of the Association, who gave some intelligent information in an interview on ringing.

At the meeting in Stoke-on-Trent on last Whit Tuesday, we drew attention to the fact that private belfry "rows" received publicity of an unsavoury nature in the public Press. A long discussion took place in regard to these unwanted reports in general, and to "The Sunday Pictorial" photographs of ringing at Great Salkeld in particular. It was decided that the distasteful portrayal therein of the ringers might be brought to the notice of the Press Council. After careful consideration some correspondence with Mr. E. A. Barnett and, in view of the fact that numerous protests were made to the paper itself (some of which were published), the committee agreed that little real good would come of such a course. The publicity given in the Exercise and in the Council meeting will, we hope, prove to have been of value, if it reiterates and reinforces the need of great care in dealing with journalists and press photographers. We take the opportunity of recording the fact that the churchwarden of St. Cuthbert's, Great Salkeld, wrote to us expressing his great concern that such grossly distorted aspects of bell ringing should have come from photographs taken in his church. The ringers, too, were very distressed.

Whilst on this theme, it is disturbing to observe that the Press continues to make national capital out of local difficulties. The dispute at Chudleigh, Devon, received wide publicity in "The Sunday Despatch" and "The Evening Standard." The sequel to this "row" was the dissolution of the team of ringers, the banning of lady ringers from the tower and the re-formation of the team composed entirely of men, all because two women could not agree. "The Daily Express" mentioned a protest to the Bishop by some "cranks," because it was alleged that carols were sung and the bells of Winslow Church, Bucks, were rung for the meeting of the fox hunt nearby. The Vicar, we are glad to note, said that the ringing was a coincidence and that in any case no one will stop them from ringing their bells when they want to.

A "welcome" peal was rung for the new Vicar of St. Mary's, Walberton, Sussex, who showed his displeasure by prohibiting ringing and telling the conductor to stay away from the belfry, so relates "The Sunday Despatch." Warwickshire and Staffordshire have had their share of unpopularity. In "The Birmingham Mail" a local resident protested in a letter about the ringing of the Cathedral bells on Thursdays. This was followed by an encouraging reply which made some complimentary remarks about this ring of bells. A happy solution was reached, according to "The Birmingham Post" to some objections from several residents about the noise from the bells of Stretton Parish Church, Burton-on-Trent. The local Council was asked to take action under the Noise Abatement Act. The complaint was amicably solved by the fitting of baffles to the openings in the tower. Some letters of protest about the ringing at Knowle on Thursdays and Saturdays were published in "The Solihull News."

On a wider plane in the general sense some intelligent and interesting articles appeared. "The Guardian," in its article on "Ringing the Changes at Norbury," refers to the variety of trades and professions to be found in the belfry. It was an intelligent piece of lay observation and it deprecated synthetic ringing. "The Irish Times" magazine page included an essay called "The Sound of Bow Bells" which dealt with Cockney London and the association of the famous bells with the City. The author concludes on an encouraging note - "Cockney has left its mark on the speech of the people who have no trace of true Cockney vigour, people who were born far outside the small orbit of the genuine, non-electronic bronze and clapper Bow Bells." Bow Bells were mentioned, too, in an article on "The Magic of Bells" which was published in "The Safe Driver." The author recalls his visit to the Whitechapel Bell Foundry, where he saw these bells.

The dedication and opening of Bow Bells were widely covered by the Press throughout these islands "Shell-B.P. News" had five pages, excellently coloured, all devoted to bells. They showed bells ringing, Big Ben and Westminster, clock and bells of St. Dunstan-in-the-West, Ernest Oliver with handbells in the Whitechapel Bell Foundry, and ringers "Standing-to" at Great Amwell, Herts. A whole page of "The Cambridge Daily News" was devoted to "Bell Ringing." It said: "Bell ringing helps ringers to stay young and fit." It dealt with the older ringers of the Ely Diocese and mentioned Stedman's association with Cambridge. The article went on to discuss bells in general and those of Cambridge in particular, and it was an outstanding account of local interest. "The Drogheda Independent" in a reference to "Ringing in the New Year" gave a lengthy account of the history of bells, with special mention of the Loughborough Bell Foundry.

Brian Price's ringing machine received publicity in "The Western Standard" under the title of "Electronics reach the Belfry," in which it was shown and described. It is very pleasing to note that the machine is not intended to supplant church bells, but is a device for personal pleasure. "The Observer's" article "Under the Sound of Bells" was cool and calculating. There was a reference to Walter Ayre.

Some references which ringers would regard as amusing had publicity. "The Daily Express," for example, mentioned an advertisement for bell ringers from a Rector, telling how to get the He-man look. We wonder what impressions prospective lady ringers would get on reading such matter! The same paper also contained a note to the effect that the Vicar of Shebbear, Devon, was concerned because there are only four ringers in the village. There is an ancient custom there of turning the Devil's Rock, which must be performed by six bell ringers. The ringers ring a discordant peal before the ceremony and a joyous one afterwards. On the amusing side we note that "The Clanger," a cartoon book of ringers for ringers by a ringer, was published during the year.

There does not appear to be any slackening in the mention of bells and bell ringing in the Press, and this is encouraging. If such publicity helps to create practical interest in ringing it must be all to the good; but we would urge those in belfries to keep their disputes out of the Press and to give, instead, more material that will engender goodwill towards our art and perhaps gain some who would otherwise not become bell ringers.

The following publications came to our notice during the year: "Overtones," "The Belfry," "The Bellringer's Diary," "The Irish Bell News," "The Ringing Towers," "The Ringer's Magazine." - Edgar C. Shepherd (convener), Fred E. Dukes.

BIOGRAPHIES WANTED

Our records show that throughout the 60 years of the Council's existence 797 persons have been elected to membership, of whom 416 are known to be deceased. Since we also know that 345 persons are still living these figures show that there are 36 persons of whom, for a variety of reasons (but not for want of trying on this committee's part), nothing is known except their names, the Association they represented and the years of their membership.

Some names have been circulated in earlier reports and another "short list" is given below in the hope that some member now present may be able to give some details regarding them. All served the Council before the Biographies Committee was formed and all were in their day active in ringing circles and attended meetings of the Council: R. Binns, Leeds and District Association, 1897-1899; J. Norbury, Chester Diocesan Guild, 1909-1935 (intermittently); J. C. Pollard, Cleveland and North Yorkshire Association, 1932-1938; H. Parker, Chester Diocesan Guild, 1936-1938; Rev. R. L. Twells, Ely Diocesan Association, 1906-1908.

The report mentions the deaths of members - already reported to the Council - and continues.

A letter was posted in December, 1961, to Mr. Charles Willshire, who was then the oldest past member of the Council, offering him our best wishes both for Christmas and for his birthday, which occurred on January 8th. Mr. Willshire was born in 1866, so was 96 this year. Also sent to him were some items of interest concerning Guildford, where, with his family, he lived from 1895 till 1913 when they moved to Canada.

Photographs only are required, for the completion of records of the following past members: T. G. Bartlett, E. W. Biffen, A. E. Coles, J. G. Buchanan, H. Dew, H. Fairclough, Rev. C. W. H. Griffiths, F. Preecey, S. F. C. Saker, R. G. Knowles, W. Walmsley and J. Maddock. These photographs are believed to exist and present day members of Societies concerned are asked to investigate the possibility of obtaining them.

The report again acknowledges the help received from many, both of the Council and outside it, in the collection of information and in obtaining loans of photographs.- A. C. Hazelden (convener).

Mr. A. C. Hazelden, who moved the adoption, said of 52 forms handed out in respect of new members who joined in 1960, only 18 had been returned with photographs.

Mr. John Willis, seconding, said this year they had not been able to write up all the forms submitted. A young man of the Kent Association was now helping with the work.

The honorary secretary: The Standing Committee recommend the adoption of the report and ask if any member has any communication to make relating to the committee to send it to, Mr. A. C. Hazelden, 109, Grange Road, Guildford.

Mr. Harry Poyner said he preferred to write his own biography than leave it to the committee.

Greater Use of Bells Wanted in Church Broadcasts

From Northern Ireland we are able to report that during the year the bells from some of the towers were broadcast prior to services, but again the time allowed was all to short. In one case, due to some difficulty, the B.B.C., after asking the ringers to turn up, were unable to broadcast the bells. Lurgan ringers broke new ground this year by appearing on B.B.C. Television, the bells being rung as a prologue to a feature programme on the Borough of Lurgan. The camera shots were well taken and gave a good illustration of the ringing. St. Thomas', Belfast, also appeared on Ulster Television at New Year. Enniskillen represented Northern Ireland on Christmas day and the general impression was of good striking. Unfortunately the district has lost a very good friend on the B.B.C. through the death of Robert Crossett, who was always trying to think of new ways and means to introduce bells into broadcasting.

Radio Eireann featured bells from the "Free State" on a number of occasions, including Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin, as part of the New Year celebrations, when "All Dublin" assembled to welcome the New Year and hear the bells. St. Patrick's Cathedral bells were broadcast at the conclusion of the Nine Lessons and Carols service on Christmas Eve and St. George's, Dublin, were heard prior to a service in June. The carillon of Armagh Cathedral was broadcast as part of the St. Patrick's Day celebration.

In the North we have had the opportunity further to improve our relationship with the B.B.C., and some interesting correspondence has passed between us. We have raised a number of points regarding the possible wider use of church bells, not only prior to Sunday services, which occurs only occasionally, but in feature programmes and the like. We played our part in the choice of tower for the Christmas round-up and the resultant ringing from St. Peter's, Woolton, was of a good standard. It is to be regretted that subsequent correspondence in "The Ringing World" from this tower was quite uncalled for and in extremely bad taste.

Little of interest has occurred in the Scottish region during the year and as chimes greatly outnumber rings in Scotland, it is felt to be not unreasonable that a chime was included in Christmas ringing this year.

Nothing of interest from the broadcasting point of view has occurred in the Midland Region with the exception of the Christmas ringing from Worcester Cathedral, which was of a very good standard and the band are to be congratulated on their performance.

In the West our relationship with the B.B.C. continues to flourish and a number of items other than Sunday services have featured various rings of bells. In June in the programme "Round-up" there was good call change ringing from Shirwell and an interview between the B.B.C.'s Peggy Archer and Tom Darch, the chairman of the Devon Association, who led the four judges at the D.A. six-bell contest there. There was the usual "dying art" argument, which was properly dealt with by Mr. Darch, who spoke so warmly and enthusiastically, and sounded so thoroughly nice with his rich, musical North Devon voice, that it is felt he did the Exercise a very good service.

The Bristol Ringing Guilds Festival was covered on Network Three, when the Cathedral bells were heard and Mr. A. V. Bennett was interviewed. T.W.W. also covered the event and featured Emmanuel bells, which were both seen and heard ringing and Mr. Frank Hansford discussed the festival in an interview.

The John Betjeman programme "The A.B.C. of Churches" was rebroadcast and Aldbourne bells and ringers featured.

In November the B.B.C. television programme "View Point" included an item entitled "Ringing in the Quantocks" and there was some good ringing and close-ups of the ringers.

There was some excellent pre-service ringing during the year, culminating in the bells of Bath Abbey on Christmas morning. St. Mary Redcliffe bells were also heard in the Christmas morning round-up. The inclusion of these bells was particularly desired by the B.B.C.

In Wales, Cowbridge came over very well, and in "Hook-up" on April 11th Mr. Arthur Hoare's handbell band gave an excellent performance which included Grandsire Caters and has a finale "The Bells of St. Mary's." During the programme Mr. Hoare gave an interesting talk on bells and ringing in general.

In the London Region two famous London rings have featured in radio and television programmes. In "Here and Now" on I.T.V. St. Paul's bells and ringers were featured for 15 minutes, during which time the bells were heard ringing rounds, whilst on the screen appeared shots of the ringers and of parts of the Cathedral. John Philips demonstrated chiming on the middle six, and John Chilcott, Philip Chalk and John Rook were interviewed. On B.B.C. a radio programme covered the opening of the new ring at St. Mary-le-Bow, but unfortunately little ringing was heard. On television there were some excellent shots of the bells turning over and of some of the ringers. Some excellent rounds were heard.

The tower recommended for the Christmas Broadcast from this region was used by the B.B.C. and the result was an excellent performance.

In general we could wish that bells were used more often before services in most regions. In the West we are very fairly dealt with and it would be a matter of interest to know how much ringers do toward getting their bells included when it is known a service is to be broadcast. Where a band is well organised and its services are appreciated by the incumbent as being part of the service for which the bells are rung, there should be no trouble in getting the bells included when a broadcast is to take place. Direct action by ringers could well improve the situation.

Complaints have been received regarding the use of the Bow Bells Interval Signal, and in correspondence with the B.B.C. we have been assured that snatches of it are often used to fill in odd moments. We can only hope that our protest at the undesirable way in which it has been used of late will bring about an improvement.

The Christmas Broadcast was generally considered to be on a par with last year. The B.B.C. again asked our co-operation in the selection of towers in most regions, and we were very pleased to help. Owing to rather short notice we were unable to implement our desire to have a wider selection of towers, but we again hope this may be possible next time. A point we have to bear in mind is that the B.B.C. have expressly stated that they have a preference for bells from places of historical or architectural interest. The placing of microphones when recordings are being made in busy towns always presents a difficult problem for the engineers; both the 12-bell broadcasts this year suffered in this respect.

Our thanks are due to those who have given us assistance during the year, and to the one or two who have sent us information of broadcasts. We should appreciate more information from those concerned with feature broadcasts, giving full reports of those events.- H. J. Sanger (convener), N. Chaddock, J. T. Dunwoody, G. E. Fearn, H. N. Pitstow, A. G. G. Thurlow, R. S. Wilson.

Mr. Harry Sanger moved the adoption of the report. He said during the year a number of things had happened and it was impossible to keep a strict check of everything. He asked those responsible for broadcasts to tell him about them.

The honorary secretary: The Standing Committee recommended the adoption of the report and that Mr. D. Bayles be added to the committee, in place of Mr. N. Chaddock, who wished to retire.

The Rev. K. W. H. Felstead asked where information should be sent to. It was eventually agreed that the address of conveners should be published with the reports.

Mr. N. Chaddock also suggested "The Ringer's Diary" a point Mr. W. H. Viggers promised to consider.

The Rev. John Scott said in the Western Region the name of the captain of ringers was published when bells were broadcast in connection with services, with the names of clergy and organist. He would like to see it in other region reports.

Films on Ringing Wanted, but not by the Council

The report of the Education and Sunday Service Ringing Committee was sectionalised. Appended is the report dealing with ringing:

Thorough investigations have been made into the possibilities of making a film about bell ringers and various aspects have been considered. All suggestions put forward by those responding to the Conveners invitation in "The Ringing World" have been followed up.

Three people made offers of personal assistance in producing a film. One offered services, aided by two ringing friends, in camera work and 16mm. photography, but said he was not sure how much time he would have to spare due to studies. Another offered help with 8 mm. film and a tape recorder, and a third offered the loan of "still" pictures of ringers in action from a project she is doing in photo-journalism.

Careful consideration of all relevant factors and advice offered leads to the conclusion that the suggested film should be in colour and with sound track in either 16 or 35 mm. film. A 35 mm. film would have to be produced professionally and distributed commercially and the following are extracts of replies to inquiries, made of two different reputable commercial film companies, one in London and the other in the Midlands.

(1) "Professional production of a 20 minutes' film in colour, covering the sort of aspects you mention would be likely to cost about £4,000, of which £2,000 to £3,000 might be recovered over a period of years. A 16 mm. film would be a little cheaper, but would produce only a few hundred pounds from library fees."

(2) "Films produced by private sponsors rarely achieve cinema distribution, except where the sponsor pays the distributor for getting the film shown - a 20 minutes' sound film may cost anything from £300 to £4,000."

The above obviously rules out this method of having a film produced so far as the Central Council is concerned, so efforts were made to interest the following bodies in the production or distribution of a film on bell ringing. Their responses are also indicated. When approaching them brief details were given of the various aspects from which they could select materials for such a film. It was also indicated that the Central Council could help in many ways.

The Central Office of Information, The Crown Film Unit and The Central Film Library. Inquiries to all three of these organisations with a view to getting them to include a film on bell ringing in their series "Our Glorious Heritage" have failed to produce a reply, although a check has been made on the correctness of the addresses to which the Convener wrote and no letter as been returned to him as being incorrectly addressed.

A very courteous reply was received from Rank Film Industries, pointing out that their "Looking at Life" series included a 10 minute film on "Ringing the Changes" which received general showing about 18 months previously in their Weekly Magazine programme. A black and white 16 mm. version of this film, which covers many of the desired aspects, is available on loan for 10s. from the G.B. Film Library, 1, Aintree Road, Perivale, Middlesex. Its locations are Loughborough, Hastings, Whitechapel and St. Paul's Cathedral.

The producer of "Ringing the Changes" doubts whether they would want to return to the subject, at least for a considerable time, in view of the specialised nature of the subject.

Granada T.V. Network and the B.B.C. T.V. Department have been approached and both have formally acknowledged receipt of the letter.

It is possible that the above inquiries may bear fruit at a later date, but for the time being no help appears to be forthcoming from these sources.

It is not recommended that the Council produce an 8 mm. film. There are many ringers with 8 mm. equipment capable of producing a useful 8 mm., or 8 mm. plus tape recorded sound, film on bell ringing. Such films could be loaned to ringing friends or publicised in "The Ringing World." The Council could be approached by anyone who had made a satisfactory film for help in getting copies made and in distributing such copies on loan. One correspondent referred to a nine minutes' 8 mm. film on bell ringing with sound recorded on tape made recently at Blackburn Cathedral.

This committee recommends that though individual efforts to produce a film on bell ringing are to be commended, it is not advisable that the Council or one of its committees should undertake this task.

An additional reason for this recommendation is that a 16 mm. sound film on bell ringing has just been produced in Canada by Mr. A. J. M. Collins, who will be present at the Council meeting at Whitsuntide. Arrangements are progressing for Council members to see this film at Whitsuntide and to consider how it might be made available for general circulation.

Moving the adoption of the section relating to films, Mr. Norman Chaddock said he had a lot of replies, but only three of concrete assistance. One was from a gentleman at Harrow Weald of 16 mm. colour. The other offers were for taking with 16 mm. silent film. The committee recommended that whilst they commend the efforts of any individual they did not think the Council should take on the task as it was very expensive. The film they saw on Sunday evening would cost about £300 for an amateur alone.

After the report had been seconded. Mr. Garner-Hayward thought the committee should see out an outline of the kind of film they wanted. He had no doubt that a number of people could produce it.

Mr. Philip Grey: It seems, reading through the report, that there is a considerable amount of confusion as to the kind of film wanted. There may be some purpose in making an instructional film by amateurs. The other sort of film is commercial - for presenting ringing to the public and that can only be made one way and that is a professional organisation producing a film for television or as a company film. I think that ringing, being a fascinating subject, would make a good film.

Mr. Chaddock said he had correspondence with two commercial companies - one in Birmingham the other in London - and neither of these felt ringing would warrant them making a film. As to Mr. Hayward's question as to what was wanted, it included historical, making of a bell and the place of ringing in the community.

Mr. R. S. Anderson said on Sunday evening they saw an excellent film in the form of a narrative and of general instruction. What they wanted to know was, was it possible to have an instructional film? He thought that to spend the Clement Glenn bequest on a film was not the wisest move.

In 1961 the two courses with which members of this committee assisted were very successful, one at Knuston Hall, Northants, and one at Grantley Hall, Yorkshire. Both are being repeated this year and some 15 to 20 ringers who applied to go to Grantley Hall were disappointed to find all available places taken. The 1962 course at Grantley Hall is the third in succession. Its popularity is indicated by the fact that many of those who applied to go in 1962 had attended the previous bell ringing courses held there.

The Durham and Newcastle Association approached us about residential week-end courses and we have since learned that one is being held in their area this year.

This report was moved by Mr. Chaddock, and seconded by Mr. F. I. Hairs, and adopted without discussion.

There is scope for much useful work and propaganda here, and the best results will probably come from personal contacts on the lines followed during the last year, when Mr. Lufkin twice visited St. Augustine's College, Canterbury, and gave talks on bell ringing, and visited Bishop's College, Cheshunt, Herts, and made arrangements to give talks during 1962. The students of St. Augustine's, Canterbury, also all visited the Cathedral for a practical demonstration. Mr. Lufkin was well received at both Colleges and presented each college library with a copy of:

In each case these four books were bound together into one book to make a more attractive and permanent addition to the college libraries. Local Association officials were consulted first in each of these cases.

It is suggested that the Council authorise the presentation of the above four booklets where similar contact can be established. The cost would be about £1 for each set of books.

Mr. F. B. Lufkin moved the adoption of the report and said there was much work that could be done. They required help and somebody who knew the way in. He asked for authority to spend money on binding books. He felt that useful work could be done in teachers' training colleges. In St. Augustine's College there were only six ordinands out of 40 and those people were going all over the world.

Mr. H. S. Roper said the way in was by personal approach. Valuable work was done at Cuddesdon College, where Miss Cross takes these ordinands out on a Saturday afternoon and gets them inoculated with the ringing bug. Oxford University Society was also helping at Ripon Hall and St. Stephen's.

Mr. Walter Ayre said there were three or four colleges where there were very good ringers training as ordinands.

Miss Cross said they were constantly at Cuddesdon. Next term there would be one there who had been Master of a University Society.

Miscellaneous Questions to Sunday Service Ringing Committee

The convener has also dealt with the following inquiries: Requests for advice and syllabuses for evening school classes in bell ringing; for advice on establishing a school bell ringing society; for the loan of a film on bell ringing; for loan of instructional film strip or slides; suggestions for handbell groups; information on bell ringing in this country by the Editor of "Overtones"; to act as local examiner for Boys Scouts' and Girl Guides' bell ringing badges; copies of belfry prayers.

Miscellaneous inquiries, such as these, seem to be increasing in number and often arise as a result of reading the Council's recent publication "Ringing for Service." It is recommended that this be advertised again in the Church Press since many of those to whom it will be most useful are out of touch with ringing circles, probably do not take "The Ringing World" and are, therefore, unaware of the existence of the publication.- N. Chaddock (convener), W. F. Moreton, F. B. Lufkin, D. N. Layton, A. G. G. Thurlow (Rev.).

The Rev. John Scott called attention to the need of the right people being called to act as examiners for Scouts' and Guides' ringing badges.

Mr. E. H. Mastin said he had 20 young ringers at three different towers and three had asked if they could take the Guides' or Scouts' ringer's badge. They were expecting a lot for the badge.

Mrs. Rogers, who is a Guide captain, said they liked their badges to be given for a good standard. She did not think the standard for the Guides' badge was too high or too hard, She had had one or two go through.

Mr. Chaddock: If you have an easy badge they get it and are not seen in the belfry any more.

Mrs. Rogers: There is a knotter's badge and some of the things they have to do is much harder than splicing a rope.

Mr. Denis Bayles thought that £25 might be spent from the Clement Glenn bequest on new books of instruction.

The Rev. K. W. H. Felstead moved that the matter of using the interest from the Clement Glenn bequest be referred to the Standing Committee.

591 Rang their First Peal in 1961

The report of the Peal Analysis Committee for 1961 shows a slight reduction in the number of peals rung as compared with that for 1960.

The grand total of peals accepted is 2,810, with 2,653 on tower bells and 157 on handbells, a drop on tower bells, but a jump on handbells, the latter mainly due to the efforts of the Derbyshire Association (27), the Leicester Diocesan Guild (61) and the Yorkshire Association (14).

On tower bells there is a fall on every number except Cinques and Triples, while on handbells the main increases are in Major, Minor and Doubles. Handbell peals of Minimus have been excluded, while we are taking opinion about a "so-called" peal of Treble Bob Minimus.

First pealers, as shown in "The Ringing World," amounted to 591, with 87 first as conductor - a most essential part of the report and one which we trust will continue to be maintained. Herewith is shown the breakdown of the analysis:

A study of the first pealers reveals some interesting facts, notably: first peal for the whole band (6) in a peal of Doubles, with a conductor aged 15; five firsts in a peal of Doubles; four firsts, with first as conductor (Doubles); four first pealers in a peal of Minor; while one young man, at his first attempt, called Stedman Triples; these, with other youngsters of 13-15 calling peals, show initiative and foresight, auguring well for the future, These are the sort of peals we should encourage.

How do the various Associations and Guilds stand in the "race"? The Leicester D.G. is still on top, with 203 peals; the Oxford Guild coming second with 183 - all tower bell peals -- to honour their 80th year of existence.

The increase in pay for the Police Force has not reflected itself in peal ringing! The Scottish Association and the St. David's Guild both failed to score, while some others just managed to creep into the table.

Now for the experts. The outstanding performances we think should receive special mention are as follows:

Chester D.G., 13,440 Spliced Surprise Major (6 methods);
Essex A., 80, 63, 41 Minor methods;
Gloucester and Bristol A., 9 Spliced Surprise Maximus;
Lancashire A., 55 Plain Major methods and 16,920 Yorkshire Surprise Royal;
Leicester D.G., 32,704 Plain Bob Major, and Cambridge Major, Royal and Maximus on handbells;
Middlesex C.A., Minor on tower bells, double-handed by three ringers, and 12 Surprise Minor, in which the conductor rang 2-3;
North Staffs A., 5 Spliced Surprise Major - silent and non-conducted;
Salisbury D.G., 6 Spliced Surprise Major at Sherborne Abbey, and 10,080 Spliced Surprise Minor in 41 methods;
Winchester and Portsmouth D.G., Plain Bob Major, in which two rang double-handed on tower bells;
Yorkshire A., 125 Minor methods on tower bells, and 130 Minor methods on handbells.

Was the Superlative Minor, rung for the Surrey Association, really reverse Cambridge, as we understand there is no Superlative Minor? While fully appreciating and understanding the increasing number of methods being rung in peals of Surprise Minor, is it not a fact that there was an understood agreement among the experts in the past that there should be at least one plain lead of every method rung in these peals?

We thank all those who send in peal reports for their co-operation; trusting they will continue to give us all the essential information we require.

This year the convener was actually able to compile this information before the end of February - please continue the good work.- W. Ayre, K. W. H. Felstead (Rev). H. L. Roper.

Moving the adoption of the report, Mr. Walter Ayre said the report meant that Treble Bob Minimus was out, Superlative Surprise Minor was not Superlative, it was Reverse Cambridge, and there was general agreement that there should be one plain lead of every method rung in a peal of Surprise Minor.

The honorary secretary: The Standing Committee recommended the adoption of the report, subject to the following: the omission of a peal of Treble Bob Minimus, on the basis that there was no true plain course; the inclusion of any peals of Minimus between January 1st and May 21st last year because they did not know the Council's decision; in regard to Spliced Surprise Minor they deprecated the ringing of any such peal that did not include a plain lead of every method.

Mr. P. A. Oram pointed out that in particular composition in the peal referred to one could not have a plain lead.

Mr. C. K. Lewis said the peal Mr. Oram had referred to had been in existence for 25 years. He first saw it in 1936, and at the time he did not approve of it and he did not approve of it now. People had rung it, but it had never been challenged in "The Ringing World." It was a question of good or bad taste and no amount of regulations would alter that. In regard to the 1,440, he examined this 10 or 12 years ago and the first block did not come round at the end. It was the same touch that the Rev. E. Bankes James used, therefore the 1,440 must be approved.

There were many and varied types of records and when claiming a record the grounds on which the claim was made should be stated.

The report was adopted, it being understood that peals of Minimus rung up to the last Council meeting be counted and not peals of Treble Bob Minimus.

Many New Methods

The Records Committee reported the following new methods and progressive lengths:-

Jan.	2,	5,040 Xanthi S.R., Leicester;
	12,	5,184 Sheffield S.M., Middlesex;
	21,	5,120 Quornden S.M., Leicester;
	21,	5,056 Crediton S.M., Hertford;
	23,	5,040 Yelvertoft S.R., Leicester;
	28,	5,040 Ulverscroft S.R., Midland;
Feb.	9,	5,184 Woking S.M., Middlesex;
	13,	5,040 Zouche S.R., Leicester;
	20,	5,040 Lubbesthorpe S.R., Leicester;
	25,	5,000 Feltham S.R., Middlesex;
	25,	5,120 Harefield S.M., Hertford;
	25,	5,120 Warminster Bob M., Salisbury;
	27,	5,040 Morriston S.R., Leicester;
Mar.	6,	5,040 Knaptoft S.R., Leicester;
	13,	5,040 Jacobstowe S.R., Leicester;
	18,	5,024 Pytchley S.M., Hertford;
April	10,	5,040 Glenfield S.R., Leicester;
	15,	5,024 Longney S.M., Gloucester;
	19,	5,024 St. Alphege Imp. C.M., Norwich;
	20,	5,024 Sussex S.M., Middlesex;
	22,	5,040 Nottingham S.R., Lancashire;
	22,	5,056 Carlton S.M., Hertford;
	29,	5,088 Broadwater S.M., Hertford;
May	4,	5,120 Lothbury S.M., Middlesex;
	8,	5,040 Ibstock S.R., Leicester;
	15,	5,040 Foston S.R., Leicester;
	18,	5,024 Pembroke S.M., Middlesex;
	27,	5,056 Ullesthorpe S.M., Leicester;
June	1,	5,120 Bangor S.M., Middlesex;
	3,	5,056 Blackdown Del. M., Bath & Wells;
	5,	5,040 Elmesthorpe S.R., Leicester;
	15,	5,024 Springvale S.M., Middlesex;
	23,	5,040 Hemington S.R., Leicester;
	24,	5,184 Spliced S. Max. (9 methods), Gloucester;
	30,	5,040 Asfordby S. Royal, Leicester;
July	1,	5,040 Spliced S. Royal (6 methods), Lancashire;
	3,	5,040 Diseworth S.R., Leicester;
	10,	5,040 Horninghold S.R., Leicester;
	15,	5,024 Biggleswade S.M., Lincoln;
Aug.	10,	5,024 Shropshire S.M., Middlesex;
	19,	5,024 Wymondham S.M., Hertford;
	23,	5,088 Cheltenham S.M., Middlesex;
Sept.	17,	5,040 Brigstow S. Max., Lancashire;
	22,	5,056 Turramurra S.M., Leicester;
	30,	5,024 Quedgeley S.M., Gloucester;
Oct.	5,	5,120 Salisbury S.M., Middlesex;
	16,	5,040 Blaby S.R., Leicester;
	26,	5,024 Brentfield S.M., Middlesex;
	30,	5,040 Anstey S.R., Leicester;
Nov.	4,	5,000 Stroud S.R., Gloucester;
	4,	5,040 Evesham S.R., Winchester;
	4,	5,040 Pyrton Imp. Ct. M., Oxford;
Dec.	14,	5,120 Perivale S.M., Middlesex.

(Signed) Mrs. E. K. FLETCHER (convener), F. T. BLAGROVE, Miss L. K. MARSHALL, JOHN R. MAYNE.

Mr. C. K. Lewis seconded, and asked for the inclusion of 13,440 Surprise Major in six methods, rung by the Chester Diocesan Guild on last Whit Sunday, to be included in the list of progressive lengths.

PEALS COLLECTION COMMITTEE

The report stated that during the past year the collection of Stedman Cinques and Caters was completed and is now in print.

A start has been made on a second collection of compositions in Major methods, the first problem being to come to a decision as to which Surprise methods should have compositions included in the collection. This project, however, is expected to be completed during 1962.

Moving the adoption, Mr. G. E. Feirn said they hoped to include one or two more compositions, including Lincolnshire. He thought conductors would welcome it.

The hon. secretary: The Standing Committee recommend that the report be adopted and that the Committee be thanked for their work in connection with the Collection of Stedman.

MORE DEMANDS FOR TOWERS AND BELFRIES COMMITTEE'S SERVICE - INSTALLATION OF BELLS IN NEW CHURCHES - COUNCIL PREFER LIVE BROADCASTS - MAJORITY VOTE FOR GREAT YARMOUTH FOR NEXT VISIT

Advice Given to 1,000 Towers Since the War

During 1961 the work of the Towers and Belfries Committee has again increased. Advice on bell and tower restoration was given during the past year in 81 churches, 14 more than in 1960.

They may be analysed geographically, thus: Berkshire 4, Buckinghamshire 3, Cambridgeshire 1, Cardiganshire 4, Cheshire 4, Cornwall 1, Derbyshire 1, Devonshire 9, Dorset 2, Essex 2, Gloucestershire 2, Hampshire 1, Herefordshire 1, Kent 2, Lincolnshire 5, Northamptonshire 8, Oxfordshire 4, Pembrokeshire 1, Somerset 14, Surrey 2, Sussex 2, Staffordshire 2, Warwickshire 2, Yorkshire 2, Overseas 2. Total 81.

Approximately 75 per cent. of these churches were visited by members of the Committee; the other inquiries were dealt with by correspondence. It will be seen that two of these were from overseas - one in South Africa and the other in British Columbia.

In five towers advice was given on augmentation and in 13 towers on recasting. Thirty-two sought advice on rehanging or were advised by members of the Committee to completely rehang their bells. In 31 churches advice was given on the repair and maintenance of existing gear, and 19 towers sought advice on sound control and modification. In six towers considerable damage had been done to masonry.

No outstanding or unusual problems were reported. Mr. Osborn reported the case of an architect charging professional fees on the total amount of a bellfounder's contract. The Rev. J. G. M. Scott encountered another who specified bells to be hung "dead" complete with gudgeons and bearings. The convener has given over 20 lectures to diocesan, architectural and other professional organisations.

The members of the Committee continue to find many towers in a neglected state, and urge all Guilds and Associations to emphasise the need for regular inspection, adjustment and lubrication of bell gear. They are urged to do this not only to their members but also to rural deans, diocesan authorities and incumbents. In this way the advice may reach the more neglected towers.

The Committee met in November to revise the Council's Handbook on the Preservation and Repair of Bells, Bellframes and Gear. The revised edition is now in the hands of the printers. Mr. Austin has prepared an article on the installation of bells in new churches for publication in professional journals.

It may be of interest to record that since the last war the Committee has now given advice on restoration work in approximately 1,000 towers.

(Signed) FREDERICK SHARPE, F.S.A., F.I.O.B. (convener), B. AUSTIN, A.R.I.B.A., J. W. CLARKE, F. E. COLLINS. M.I.Inst.E., J. FREEMAN, E. H. LEWIS, M.A., W. A. OSBORN, J. G. M. SCOTT. M.A., B. D. THRELFALL, M.A., A.M.I.C.E.

The president, in moving the adoption of the report, said the work of the Committee had increased and involved a tremendous amount of travelling. Since the war the Committee had given advice to over 1,000 towers.

Mr. Brian Austin, who seconded, has written a report on the installation of bells in new churches. In that report, he said, he had to decide whether to criticise his profession or the clergy. The basis of the report was really a direct approach to the Church diocesan authorities throughout this country telling them about bells in new churches. Mr. Geoffrey Dodds had written an article on the subject, and he thought the more articles they could put before the Church authorities the better. His report had been received fairly favourably in architectural magazines, but not so favourably in Church publications. He thought they must as a committee try to circulate the report to every diocese in the country, and if possible get a précis in their diocesan leaflets.

Mr. P. A. Corby regretted that this important report was always received by the Council late in the proceedings. He hoped that in future it would be received earlier as the discussion would be of more use than some others. In regard to architectural fees on a bell-hanging job, he had a feeling that such fees were charged when the bell-hanging was a sub-contract. The professional fee on restoration work was 10 per cent., which was very considerable. He thought the Committee should inquire into the question of fees.

The Rev. John Scott quoted a case where a church had an estimate from the bellfounders and the architect drew up a specification on this information and was prepared to collar the fee.

Mr. W. A. Osborn said if there was an architect's fee on top of an 8-bell contract it might make all the difference in regard to the number of the bells. He proposed that Mr. Harry Sanger be added to the Committee to take over his work.

Mr. Barnett seconded and this was agreed to. Mr. Geoffrey Dodds asked that all Associations should keep a record of silent towers and make certain that the bells were maintained.

Before the report was adopted a vote of thanks was passed to the Committee for their excellent work.

THE METHODS COMMITTEE

The Committee's report stated that with the completion and publication of the Collection of Minor Methods the Committee has turned its attention to the Collection of Triples Methods, and discussion has taken place as to the content of the proposed Collection as the Committee, as now constituted, is not of quite the same opinion as its predecessor. The discussion is now drawing to a close and will, it is hoped, result in a useful Collection of Triples Methods.

Last year we were asked to make recommendations as to the inclusion or otherwise of a peal of Nightingale Treble Place Bob Major. We have carefully considered the matter and are of the opinion that the peal conforms with the Conditions required for Peals and should, therefore, be included in the Analysis.

We would draw the attention of the Council to the unsatisfactory position which has arisen as a result of the renaming, at the Council's request, of certain extensions by the Leicester Guild. We would recommend to the Leicester Guild that the method now named Morecombelake Surprise Royal, which is the correct extension of Lyme Surprise Major, be renamed Lyme Surprise Royal, and the method now named Coalville Surprise Royal, which is the correct extension of Whitwick Surprise Major, be renamed Whitwick Surprise Royal in accordance with the Council's Report on Extension.

(Signed) C. K. LEWIS (convener), F. T. BLAGROVE, K. W. H. FELSTEAD, J. R. MAYNE.

Mr. C. K. Lewis, in moving the adoption of the report, asked those who wanted to ring new methods to make certain that they were proper extensions. If they had any doubt they should consult the Committee. It was rather regrettable that this cropped up.

Mr. Shirley Burton said they changed Whitwick Surprise and Lyme Surprise because the extensions to Royal were not perfect. The other extensions, Morecombelake and Coalville, were worse because there were only three leads like the parent lead.

Mr. Brian Warwick quoted Mr. John Mayne as saying that he did not think Whitwick and Lyme extended at all.

Mr. Blagrove replied that at that time Mr. Mayne was not a member of the Methods Committee. The position was clearly stated in the Methods Committee's report on extension.

Mr. A. D. Barker: Can the Methods Committee publish the names of methods that will extend?

The Rev. K. W. H. Felstead: All we ask is that static extensions should be named as such.

A vote of thanks to the Methods Committee for their work was moved by Mr. W. F. Moreton.

An amendment to the Decisions arising from an exchange of bells in a peal was submitted by Mr. E. A. Barnett, who moved:-

To amend the third item of "Conditions Required for Peals" in Section D (1) of the Council's Decisions by substituting the following for the existing wording:-

"Each bell shall he rung throughout by the same person and there shall be no exchange of bells by any of the ringers during the ringing of a peal, provided, however, that this shall not prohibit the ringing of any bell throughout the peal by two persons at the same time, where the weight or go make this essential."

Mr. B. Threlfall suggested that the last word of the motion be changed from essential to advisable.

Both the mover and seconder were adverse to a change and the motion was carried.

COUNCIL PREFER LIVE BROADCASTS

A particularly interesting debate arose from the following motion, proposed by Dr. D. N. Layton and seconded by Mr. A. V. Davis:-

"That this Council acknowledges the successful efforts of the Broadcasting Committee to ensure a higher standard of ringing broadcasts by the B.B.C., but regrets the fact that the programme entitled 'Christmas Bells' broadcast on Christmas morning has been a recording on the last two occasions and asks the Broadcasting Committee to try to persuade the B.B.C. to revert to a 'live' broadcast of actual ringing to mark the Christmas Festival."

Dr. Layton said at Christmas, 1961, the B.B.C. used recordings of bells. Admittedly the recordings were special ones made for the occasion, but he thought the programme as such did not speak of spontaneity or genuineness. In 1960 the Council passed a resolution against the use of recorded bells in preference to genuine bells.

Doing the last few years the Broadcasting Committee had been successful in raising the standard of broadcast ringing in the country, and it was better than it was a few years ago. He felt the motion, if passed, would strengthen the position of the Broadcasting Committee in discussing the matter with the B.B.C. The Committee would be able to say that the use of recorded bells was undesirable and then try and persuade them to have live broadcasts. It must be admitted that there were technical difficulties in broadcasting live on Christmas Day, but it used to be done live and he did not think they were insurmountable.

Mr. A. V. Davis, in seconding, said on Christmas Day they celebrated the birth of the Lord. That was an event which took place and changed the whole course of the world; but for that event many of the great events would not have happened, and if that had not happened they should not be discussing that matter that day.

He did not want it to be felt that Dr. Layton and himself were against recordings, but they were not the real thing. They asked the Council to say that Christmas morning was a day when a live broadcast should take place and the broadcast really genuine.

Mr. Davis said he asked the B.B.C. to change to live broadcasts, and their reply was that records were more convenient. They also referred to atmospherics. He would say that there was no more peaceful place in this country than Christmas morning. He also disagreed with another reason put forward by the B.B.C. when they said they could not get artistes to perform on Christmas morning.

We suggest that the ringers should be the recorders of the bells on Christmas morning.

Mr. H. Sanger said the facts were these. The Committee said three years ago that they were in sympathy with live broadcasts but the facts were that his committee could only advise. This was a matter of policy. If the B.B.C. said they were to be recorded, much as they might deprecate it, they would continue to broadcast that way.

Mr. J. R. Cooper said most of them like to have Christmas Day without work. That would be achieved for many people with a recording.

Mr. R. S. Anderson: Will this resolution be any help to the Committee or will it be a hindrance?

Mr. Vernon Bottomley asked the Council not to lose sight of the fact that the bells were recording for the Christmas message.

Mr. J. T. Dunwoody said he recently visited the head of broadcasting in Northern Ireland. "He said to me: 'What is your grouse? Have you come to criticise? We are trying our best to get open bells, and if we can do it we will, but there are certain places in the country districts where we are not prepared to send a unit for bells and another to take the service'."

Dr. Layton said there was no intention to write to the headquarters of the B.B.C., but a request to the Broadcasting Committee to keep this motion in mind. There was no desire to interfere with the B.B.C. All they were asking the Council to do was to express the Council's opinion.

ONE AFFILIATION FEE

(i) whether non-resident life members' subscriptions should be uniform throughout the Exercise, or

(ii) whether without further payment membership of one affiliated territorial Society should entitle a ringer to non-resident life membership of all other such Societies.

Mr. A. D. Barker: I have been requested to propose this motion. Personally, I cannot see any treasurer agreeing to it.

Mr. F. W. Perrens: In view of the way this is presented I cannot believe the Council is in sympathy with it.

The hon. secretary reported that no specific invitation had been received for the next meeting. The Standing Committee recommended that the next meeting should take place in London, and at the same time Canon A. G. G. Thurlow said that the Norwich Diocesan Association would welcome the Council.

Canon Thurlow said it was very kind of the Council to vote in favour of Great Yarmouth. "We will have to see about the Town Hall. It might have to be in London."

Canon Thurlow said after the Whitsun meeting next year their president was going to accept a kind and happy invitation from the American Guild of English Handbell Ringers to visit the United States. Mr. Sharpe was going to give a series of lectures on bells, tuning and composition. At this handbell festival some 300 teams come and compete. He thought it would be very nice if they could record their thanks for issuing this invitation and paying every cent of his expenses.

The announcement was received with great pleasure, and the Council decided to record its thanks at this generous gesture between two bell-loving organisations.

The hon. treasurer announced that the New South Wales Association was reconstituted last month as the Australian and New Zealand Association. They all agreed that this was a very important step on the other side. Mr. Philip Gray was again to represent the enlarged Association.

The hon. secretary said that at the meeting of the Standing Committee he was instructed to call attention to the decision of the Nomination Committee in 1956: That normally the president and vice-president should hold office for six years and that nominations for these offices must be sent in two calendar months before the meeting.

Mr. E. H. Lewis said that by her absence Mrs. Fletcher had broken a 47 years' record of attendance at meetings of the Council. He proposed that the good wishes of the Council be conveyed to her. Agreed.

Mr. Harold Rogers proposed the customary vote of thanks to the president and the platform of officers for their work during the past year. Everything had been very efficiently done.

The president proposed a vote of thanks to the Lord Mayor of Cardiff, the Bishop of Llandaff, Mr. T. Stephens (Master of the Llandaff and Monmouth Association), Canon W. E. C. Thomas (Vicar of Cardiff), Messrs. Harrington, Roderick and D. King, and Miss Ridiard. Thanks were also accorded to local incumbents and tower keepers and to the Ferndale Choir for their concert.

There was a large attendance at the Social evening held at the Park Hotel on Tuesday. The Rev. K. W. H. Felstead recited and the Rev. John Scott sung ditties.