The Central Council Bathed in Sunshine at Bath

THE happiest memories will be associated with Bath in the annals of the Central Council, where the 69th annual meeting was held on Whit Tuesday. A smiling Somerset countryside greeted the members as they toured a county rich in towers on the Sunday and Monday.

Proceedings on the Tuesday started with Holy Communion at Bath Abbey, which was largely attended. Bishop E. J. Wilson, Assistant Bishop, was the celebrant and he was assisted by Canon A. G. G. Thurlow, Preb. Geoffrey Lester, Rector of Bath Abbey, and the Rev. H. F. Warren, Master of the Bath and Wells Diocesan Association.

The business meeting was held in the Pump Rooms. The Mayor (Ald. R. Purdie) gave an official welcome, and the Assistant Bishop and the Master spoke respectively on behalf of the Diocese and the Bath and Wells Association. On the platform Canon Thurlow presided and with him were the vice-president (Mr. J. Freeman), the hon. secretary and treasurer (Mr. E. A. Barnett), the assistant hon. secretary (Mrs. Barnett) and the hon. librarian (Mr. F. W. Perrens).

The president said it was a great privilege to meet in this ancient city, which was not quite so old as “The Ringing World” implied.

The Mayor (Ald. R. Purdie) said he had come along that morning to bring them the greetings of the City of Bath, which was part of the Diocese of Bath and Wells. Its ringing society was some 75 years old, which he understood was the same age as their Association. In those 75 years that was the first occasion the Central Council had been to Bath. That morning they saw Bath in all its golden glory in the midst of a smiling Somerset.

The Mayor said he believed that in some countries they overdid this bell ringing business, particularly in the Mediterranean, where life was intolerable; sometimes in this country it occurred with the continuous solitary note of a bell. As far as the ringing of bells was concerned there was something uplifting when the bells spoke and when those bells identified themselves with the life of the community. He thought that if their ringing was identified with the life of the community it would help them in their aims. He thanked the Council and the ringers of the Bath and Wells Association for their service to the community and hoped that it would not be another 75 years before they came to Bath again.

Bishop E. J. Wilson, the Assistant Bishop of Bath and Wells, in giving the greetings of the Lord Bishop, said he thought they could gather from his address at Wells on Easter Monday of the affection and pride with which he held bells. He also welcomed them in the name of the incumbents of the diocese, which extended to the whole length of the county of Somerset, and, as they knew, Somerset was richly endowed with splendid towers, as was Norfolk, the county of their president.

The Bishop said he was pleased to see from “The Ringing World” the large number of towers in Somerset in which they had done their job and it must have cheered the hearts of many to hear the bells.

In his lifetime there had been a considerable change in their belfries. As a small boy he seemed to remember the close association between bell ringers and beer, and at times there was beer in the belfries. But now they had their sisters, aunts and nieces in their belfries and that had been a very real step forward, with ladies now occupying prominent places in the fellowship and sorority of the ringing world.

“Having been abroad for the best part of 20 years, when I returned 10 years ago what struck me was that bell ringing had become a youth movement, particularly in Somerset, and it is very encouraging to see the large number of boys and girls in the towers of the diocese.” Their work and craft seemed two-fold - to remind people of the claims of God and worship in the community life and their responsibility for furthering fellowship in the Church. It was when one read their journal one realised the responsibility ringers had for furthering the fellowship of the Church. This was seen by the welcome they gave to visitors and the concern they showed in young people, which was a good piece of social service.

A welcome on behalf of the Bath and Wells Association was voiced by the Master, the Rev. H. F. Warren, who said he would like to make it clear that the connection between ringing and beer had not ceased, except that it was not in the belfries - but ringing was still thirsty work.

Mr. Smallwood expressed surprise that the Council had never been to Somerset, particularly as they had one of the giants of the Exercise in the late Mr. Joe Dyke. That very day was their birthday, as they were born on May 31st, 1890. In connection with the Council’s visit he would like to thank Messrs G. Salmon, Eric Naylor and John Gilbert for their work in making the arrangements. He wished them a successful meeting and hoped it would not be another 75 years before they came again.

ATTENDANCE ROLL

Canon A. G. G. Thurlow, Messrs. E. A. Barnett, F. W. Perrens, F. Sharpe and J. F. Smallwood.

Mrs. E. A. Barnett, Messrs. J. Betjeman, F. E. Collins, F. I. Hairs, D. Hughes, C. K. Lewis, W. A. Osborn, H. N. Pitstow, G. W. Pipe, H. L. Roper, E. C. Shepherd, R. F. B. Speed, P. L. Taylor, T. W. White and J. Willis.

Ancient Society of College Youths.- Messrs. W. T. Cook and W. Williams.
Australia and New Zealand Association.- Mr. P. M. J. Gray.
Bath and Wells Diocesan Association.- Messrs. J. H. Gilbert, A. H. Reed, G. Salmon and H. J. Sanger.
Bedfordshire Association.- Messrs. J. H. Edwards and A. F. Rushton.
Cambridge University Guild.- Dr. C. M. P. Johnson and Mr. B. D. Threlfall.
Chester Diocesan Guild.- Messrs J. W. Griffiths and J. Worth.
Coventry Diocesan Guild.- Mrs. D. E. Beamish and Mr. H. Windsor.
Derbyshire Association.- Messrs. D. R. Carlisle, G. A. Halls and M. P. Phipps.
Devon Association.- Mr. B. E. Bartlett.
Dudley & Dist. Guild.- Mr. M. J. Fellows.
Durham and Newcastle Association.- Messrs. K. Arthur and D. A. Bayles.
East Grinstead and District Guild.- Mr. B. E. Jeffrey.
Ely Diocesan Association.- Messrs. J. G. Gipson, E. H. Mastin, D. F. Murfet and H. S. Peacock.
Essex Association.- Dr. J. Armstrong, Messrs. F. B. Lufkin and J. E. G. Roast.
Gloucester and Bristol Diocesan Association.- Messrs. A. L. Barry, W. B. Kynaston, J. R. Taylor and C. A. Wratten.
Guildford Diocesan Guild.- Messrs. D. A. R. May, J. F. M. Maybrey, S. G. Ponting and W. H. Viggers.
Guild of Devonshire Ringers.- Miss B. M. Boyle, Messrs. N. Mallett, T. G. Myers and the Rev. J. G. M. Scott.
Hereford Diocesan Guild.- Messrs. G. T. Cousins, C. A. Lewis and A. T. Wingate.
Hertford County Association.- Messrs. W. Ayre, B. M. Barker, R. G. Bell and G. Dodds.
Irish Association.- Mr. F. E. Dukes.
Kent County Association.- Messrs. P. A. Corby, T. Cullingworth, S. Jenner and I. H. Oram.
Ladies’ Guild.- Miss J. Beresford, Miss D. E. Colgate and Mrs. P. J. Staniforth.
Lancashire Association.- Messrs. A. Capstick, C. Crossthwaite, J. P. Partington and F. Reynolds.
Leicester Diocesan Guild.- Messrs. S. Burton, J. M. Jelley, P. J. Staniforth 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.- Messrs. A. D. Barker, H. W. Rogers, W. G. Wilson and Mrs. H. W. Rogers.
Middlesex County Association.- Messrs. F. T. Blagrove, G. W. Critchley, T. J. Lock and Mrs. R. M. Foreman.
Midland Counties Guild.- Mr. J. W. Cotton.
National Police Guild.- Mr. N. S. Bagworth.
North Staffordshire Association.- Messrs. R. S. Anderson and C. S. Ryles.
North Wales Association.- Dr. E. V. Woodcock.
Norwich Diocesan Association.- Messrs. P. M. Adcock, H. W. Barrett, F. N. Golden and N. V. Harding.
Oxford Diocesan Guild.- Messrs. W. Butler, N. J. Diserens, F. C. Price and P. Walker.
Oxford University Society.- Messrs. S. J. Ivin and D. J. Roaf.
Peterborough Diocesan Guild.- Messrs. J. H. Bluff and J. Linwell.
St. Martin’s Guild, Birmingham.- Messrs. J. A. Ainsworth and G. E. Fearn.
Salisbury Diocesan Guild.- Messrs. J. T. Barrett, G. H. Harding, G. S. Morris and Rev. R. Keeley.
Sheffield and District Society.- Mr. N. Chaddock.
Society of Royal Cumberland Youths.- Messrs. D. Beresford, W. H. Dobbie, K. Newman and D. E. Sibson.
South Derbyshire and North Leicestershire Association.- Mr. J. E. Collins.
Southwell Diocesan Guild.- Mr. W. L. Exton.
Stafford Archdeaconry Society.- Messrs. M. W. Fairey, B. G. Key and C. M. Smith.
Suffolk Guild.- Messrs. H. W. Egglestone, C. W. Pipe and Miss A. E. J. Lester.
Surrey Association.- Messrs. A. P. Cannon, W. Parrott and W. Streeter.
Sussex County Association.- Mrs. F. I. Hairs, Messrs. R. W. R. Percy, A. V. Sheppard and W. L. Weller.
Swansea and Brecon Guild.- Mr. G. I. Lewis.
Truro Diocesan Guild.- Messrs. W. C. Boucher, D. Burnett, A. J. Davidson and A. Locke.
Universities Association.- Miss M. R. Cross.
University of Bristol Society.- Dr. T. P. Edwards.
University of London Society.- Mr. A. J. Frost.
Winchester and Portsmouth Diocesan Guild.- Mr. A. V. Davis, Canon K. W. H. Felstead and Mr. J. Hartless.
Worcestershire and Districts Association.- Messrs. B. C. Ashford, D. Beacham and W. B. Cartwright.
Yorkshire Association.- Messrs. V. Bottomley, W. E. Critchley, E. Hudson and W. F. Moreton.

Messrs. B. Austin, honorary member; H. O. Baker, Chester D.G.; E. Billings, Peterborough D.G.; F. Bogan, Irish A.; Miss J. A. V. Caligari, Hereford D.G.; Messrs. P. I. Chapman, Peterborough D.G.; J. D. Clarke, Southwell D.G.; J. T. Dunwoody, Irish A.; J. P. Fidler, hon. mem.; G. W. Fletcher, life mem.; Mrs. C. C. Marshall, hon. mem.; Group Capt. J. S. Mason, A.S.C.Y.; Messrs. A. J. Pitman, hon. mem.; T. H. Radford, East Derbyshire and Notts A.; R. R. Savory, Winchester and Portsmouth D.G.; Miss H. G. Snowden, Essex A.; Mrs. R. F. B. Speed, hon. mem.; Messrs. L. Stilwell, hon. mem.; G. Tembey, Cumberland and North Westmorland A.; C. G. J. Watts, A.S.C.Y.; F. A. White, hon. mem.; E. Willcox, Shropshire A.

NEW MEMBERS

The following new members were introduced to the president: Messrs. J. W. Griffiths (Chester D.G), D. R. Carlisle (Derbyshire A.), M. J. Fellows (Dudley and D.S.), B. E. Jeffrey (East Grinstead and D.G.), Dr. J. Armstrong (Essex A.), J. R. Taylor (Gloucester and Bristol A.), C. A. Lewis (Hereford D.G.), B. M. Barker (Hertford CA.), S. Jenner (Kent C.A.), A. J. Frost (London U.A.), A. Capstick and F. Reynolds (Lancs A.), Miss R. M. Foreman (Middlesex A.), C. S. Ryles (N. Staffs A.), P. M. Adcock (Norwich D.A.), N. J. Diserens, F. C. Price, P. Walker (Oxford D.G.), J. H. Bluff and J. Linwell (Peterborough D.G.), J. A. Ainsworth (St. Martin’s Guild), Rev. R. Keeley (Salisbury D.G.), K. Newman (R. Cumberland Y.), M. W. Fairey and C. M. Smith (Stafford Archdeaconry S.), H. W. Egglestone (Suffolk G.), W. Streeter (Surrey A.), E. Hudson (Yorkshire).

Newly presented - A. D. Barker (London C.A.), G. W. Critchley (Middlesex C.A.), N. S. Bagworth (National Police G.), A. P. Cannon (Surrey A.).

ELECTION OF OFFICERS

The hon. secretary reported that there was only one nomination for the office of president for 1966-69, Canon A. G. G. Thurlow, proposed by Mr. F. Sharpe and seconded by Mr. N. Golden. He declared Canon Thurlow elected as their president.

Canon Thurlow said he was exceedingly grateful to his proposer and seconder and the Council, who in their wisdom had not proposed and seconded someone else. “I had better repeat, as I said at great length when I was elected, that I shall not be standing in 1969 because of the unwritten rule which we arrived at.”

Mr. John Freeman, who was proposed by Mr. Walter Ayre and seconded by Mr. J. Bray, was elected vice-president. There was no other nomination. Mr. Freeman thanked the Council.

The president said, as they would see, Mr. Barnett retired and was not seeking re-election. The exceedingly important matter of electing a new hon. secretary and treasurer had been given a great deal of consideration, and after much care the name of Mr. Vernon Bottomley was put forward. No other proposal was submitted. Mr. Bottomley was proposed by him (the president) and seconded by Mr. Freeman, and it gave him the greatest possible pleasure and relief in announcing that from the end and clearing up of that meeting Mr. Vernon Bottomley would be the new secretary and treasurer of the Council.

The president said it would be quite impossible to let the Barnetts go without saying something all too brief and all too inadequate, to voice their feelings as to what they had done in their official capacities. He was not going to make a long speech because he felt it would be improper and also because one assumed everyone read “The Ringing World” and they had read some sincere and warmhearted tributes. Perhaps it would be best if he expressed on his own behalf and theirs how very warm was the regard in which they held them. No question had ever been too foolish not to get a good answer.

Even secretaries did not know everything. “We thought we ought to do something of tangible recognition to appeal to your hearts and other portions of your anatomy. Teddy once promised to share his worldly goods with Olive. I think if Olive accepts this handsome handbag and looks inside it, there will be something to share and hand to Teddy.”

The president then handed the bag to Mrs. Barnett, who opened it, looked inside, and handed an envelope to Mr. Barnett. The retiring secretary, when he looked at the cheque, visibly expressed pleasurable surprise. Mrs. Barnett looked equally surprised and very pleased, while delight in the ceremony was expressed by the warm applause of the Council.

Mr. Barnett, in reply, said it was difficult to find word adequately to express their gratitude. “May I thank you all for the very kind gift to my wife and the generosity you have shown towards me. I would also like to thank those who have been kind enough to express appreciation in ‘The Ringing World’ of our efforts over the past 14 years.

“Firstly, I should like to say it was a very great privilege to have been secretary of the Council. We hope to be of service to the Council and the Exercise in the future but we would like a period to taste our liberty before we again become your servants.

“During the period of office we have got to know very many members of the Exercise, which we count as a privilege. For the future it is less likely that we shall make so many acquaintances; there are, however, a number of people here who we are meeting for the first time.

“Lastly, may I wish all the very best to Mr. and Mrs. Bottomley in the years that lie before them, I am quite sure they will do a splendid job for the Exercise; I know they will have your support.”

Mrs. Barnett also thanked the Council and said she had enjoyed knowing people and receiving their friendship. They would now be able to get rid of a monstrosity in the form of a large steel cabinet which had taken up a corner of their dining room. She felt that the room would have to be redecorated.

Mr. F. W. Perrens was re-elected hon. librarian, having been proposed by Mrs. D. E. Colegate and seconded by Mrs. Staniforth. He promised to do his best for the next three years.

ELECTION OF HON. MEMBERS

The president announced that Mr. J. P. Fidler and Mrs. Marshall were not seeking re-election. Messrs. D. Hughes, H. N. Pitstow, L. Stilwell, P. L. Taylor, F. W. White and J. Willis were open for re-election and he suggested that three of the four vacancies be filled, leaving one in case of emergencies.

The retiring members were then re-elected on the proposition of Mr. F. Sharpe, seconded by Mr. C. K. Lewis. New members elected were Mrs. Jeanne Bottomley, proposed by Mr. Eric Critchley and seconded by Mrs. Barnett; Mr. Frank Haines, proposed by Mr. D. Hughes and seconded by Mr. F. E. Collins; Mr. J. Garner-Hayward, proposed by Mr. F. W. Perrens and seconded by Mr. J. F. Smallwood.

Mr. H. N. Pitstow and Mr. Douglas Hughes were re-elected hon. auditors, proposed by Mrs. P. J. Staniforth, seconded by Mr. P. A. Corby.

Tributes to Faithful Servants

The Council stood while the following members and past members, whose deaths had been reported since Whitsun, 1965, were reported:-

Canon J. D. Pearson (died October, 1963), Mrs. G. W. Fletcher, W. H. Southeard, E. C. Gobey, J. T. Dyke, C. Harrison, T. Metcalfe, A. Paddon Smith, P. Crook, S. H. Symonds, G. L. Hewitt and D. H. Bennett.

Mr. F. W. Perrens, in a tribute to Mrs. Fletcher, said he had known her for the past 50 years and said if she had been associated with the same tower as he was in his early ringing days she would have been debarred from entering. Such was the opinion of many of the clergy and ringers in those days that they thought the tower of a church was not the place for ladies. Fortunately Mrs. Fletcher was not debarred from the tower and in a very short time she became a very competent ringer on all numbers of bells, both tower- and hand-bells. She was also a very capable conductor.

Mrs. Fletcher came on the Council in 1915 as the representative of the Ladies’ Guild. She did a tremendous amount of committee work and, as they knew, her husband was secretary of the Council for 21 years and they could well imagine the amount of work that involved. “With the passing of Mrs. Fletcher this Council loses a most devoted worker and many of us lose a very sincere friend.”

Another tribute to Mrs. Fletcher came from Mrs. J. King, the president of the Ladies’ Guild, who said that in 1912, when only 20 years of age, Mrs. Fletcher formed the Ladies’ Guild. She was a brilliant ringer and conductor and was treated as an equal by men, but she wanted equality for all lady ringers and for their voice to be heard in ringing affairs.

And so the Ladies’ Guild came to be formed and wonderfully organised by her. She was at times both its president and secretary and maintained a burning interest in its affairs throughout some 53 years. “Her death last September was a very sad blow to the Guild, but it made us think of the wonderful example her life can be to us all.”

Mr. C. W. Pipe, in a reference to Mr. Stedman H. Symonds, who was captain at Lavenham, said he was a very kindly man and was famous for Stedman.

Mr. D. Burnett, in a tribute to Mr. W. H. Southeard, said he was the first member of the Truro Guild to be a member of the Central Council. He took a great interest in the Cathedral and was warden for many years. “We have lost a wonderful worker for ringing in the diocese.”

Mr. J. F. Smallwood spoke of his memories of Mr. Joseph Dyke. He described him as a man of few words but a man of action, and everybody who knew him formed a high opinion of his style at the end of a rope. He was well loved in these parts and while secretary of the Bath and Wells Diocesan Association got round the county and enthused youth. “A great man and we all loved him.”

Mr. P. L. Taylor spoke with gratitude of Mr. Colin Harrison, who taught him much about ringing. For nearly 40 years he was with them at Loughborough.

Mr. Cyril Crossthwaite, who had known Mr. Peter Crook for 30 of his 80 years, said he thought it was true to say that his whole life was devoted to ringing, and the last peal he took part in and conducted was to celebrate his 60 years of ringing.

Mr. G. E. Fearn paid tribute to a predecessor of his as secretary of the St. Martin’s Guild - Mr. A. Paddon Smith, who for 20 years was their highly respected hon. secretary. His good influence would last for many years to come, he said.

Mr. E. Hudson referred to Mr. Tom Metcalfe, who was for 40 years the kingpin of the Cleveland and North Yorkshire Association.

Central Council’s Progress in Past Fourteen Years

FOR the first time for many years there has been a reduction in representative membership, both the Shropshire Association and the Suffolk having dropped one member. Against this, the Stafford Archdeaconry Society has added one.

Numerous inquiries about the Barron Bell Trust and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award continued to be made. Most of the latter were in connection with the question of assessment, in which I could in general only repeat advice given in the “Handbook of Pursuits” issued by the Award office, which I would recommend those interested to obtain.

During the year Mrs. Winifred Turner kindly assigned to the Council the copyright of J. A. Trollope’s “London Ringers and Ringing,” which she presented to the library some years ago after the death of her husband, Mr. Ernest C. S. Turner. I am most grateful to Mrs. Turner for this gesture and to Mr. W. B. Cartwright for arranging the legal formalities. Mr. Cartwright also gave valuable advice on the form of agreement for hire of the Washington Cathedral film.

The following have now ceased to be members of the Council and we offer our thanks to them for their past services: J. P. Fidler (1951-66) and Mrs. C. C. Marshall (1945-66), hon. members; J. W. Clarke (1947-65), Miss A. D. Edwards (1963-65), J. Scott (1963-65), Chester; H. J. Shuck (1964-65), Dudley and Dist.; Ernest J. Ladd (1960-66), East Grinstead and District Guild; P. J. Eves (1960-65), Essex; R. J. Hooper (1960-65), Gloucester and Bristol; P. Morgan (1963-65), J. J. Webb (1951-65), Hereford; G. W. Critchley (1957-65), Hertford; Mrs. F. E. Dukes (1962-65), Irish; J. R. Cooper (1957-65), Kent; J. E. Burles (1963-65), R. Leigh (1963-65), Lancashire; C. W. Ottley (1963-65), London County; F. W. Goodfellow (1950-65), J. R. Mayne (1957-65), Middlesex; E. H. Edge (1960-65), North Staffs; Mrs. A. D. Barker (1961-65), D. J. Smith (1960-65), Oxford Dio.; Miss S. R. Collins (1963-65), Peterborough; F. E. Haynes (1950-65), St. Martin’s, Birmingham; W. C. West (1945-65), Salisbury; R. B. Morris (1963-65), R. Newton (1960-65), Shropshire; F. E. Hawthorne (1950-65), S.R.C.Y.; B. M. Buswell (1956-65), D. H. Rooke (1960-65), Southwell; J. W. Blythe (1957-65), L. G. Brett (1957-65), Suffolk; G. W. Hughes (1957-65), Stafford Archdeaconry; Dr. D. N. Layton (1956-65), University of London; G. Benfield (1957-65), Yorkshire.

To end this, my last report, on a personal note, there are a number of people I would like to thank: First and foremost my wife, without whose help, encouragement and, when necessary, prodding me into activity, I could never have carried out the job; secondly, Mr. W. G. Wilson. who undertook in 1952 to see that the meeting papers were typed and duplicated and, with the active help of Miss C. L. Groves, has done so ever since, thereby saving the Council considerable expense and myself much anxiety; thirdly, Mr. J. F. Smallwood for his confidence in nominating me as your secretary, and Mr. F. E. Haynes for seconding in the absence of the late Mr. Albert Walker. Lastly, a whole host of people who have helped in many ways - making arrangements for Council meetings, assembling these papers, discussions over lunches and assistance on meeting days are some which come to mind, and of course I must not forget those actively concerned with the work of the Council and with “The Ringing World.”

Perhaps I may be allowed a few personal impressions. I hope it would not be presumptuous to say that the Council has gone forwards rather than backwards during the past 14 years, though I would certainly not claim the credit for all this. There does, however, seem to be much less general criticism but this is not to say there is no room for improvement. I have always been very much a traditionalist and in its constitution and procedure the Council is little different now from what it became when my predecessor introduced a much more businesslike approach on taking office 35 years ago. A new look at some of its ways is probably overdue. I did at one time feel that it was too big, but came round later so the view that, within reason, the more people who can feel they have a part to play in its affairs, the better both for the Council and the Exercise generally.

This could come about in another way - the greatly increased turnover of membership in recent years. Of the present Council only 37 of the 164 representative members were members when I took office. In some ways this is all to the good; nevertheless there are merits in continuity but it is no doubt difficult to achieve a satisfactory balance.

One other noticeable change has been the marked aversion during the past ten years or so to rational discussion of matters concerning basic principles of change ringing. This is probably a reaction to the disproportionate amount of time which, both between the wars and for some years afterwards, the Council devoted to such matters, but I feel that the pendulum has now gone too far in the opposite direction. This was very noticeable at the 1964 meeting at Truro, when two motions put forward by representatives of the Durham and Newcastle Association were not, in my view, treated seriously and the Council was guilty of gross discourtesy to those concerned.

Against this there has, however, been a much greater appreciation of the Council’s responsibilities for the welfare of the Exercise generally. The activities of the Sunday Service and Education Committee leading to the now well-established system of day- and week-end courses are a notable example. I confess to being doubtful at the outset of the value of this committee but am glad to have been proved wrong. Then, as is well known, sales of publications have increased enormously: in all, some 5,918 copies last year compared with 1,271 in 1952. The Beginners’ Handbook of which almost 20,000 copies have been sold since it first appeared in 1959 is, of course, the best seller we have ever had. That there is at the present time a greater demand for publications on ringing than ever before is clear from the interest shown by commercial publishers recently, an interest from which both they and the Exercise have profited. My greatest regret is that no adequate history of change ringing exists. A sub-committee formed in 1957 to consider whether the compilation of such a history could be undertaken by the Council unfortunately did not recommend this. I think this was a wrong decision, but as the original idea was mine no doubt I am prejudiced!

From a financial point of view the Council has in effect become a small business, a far cry from 1931, when total receipts were £55, profit on publications £2, and the accounts were audited on the morning of the meeting. The capital account now shows a balance of some £10,500 compared with £1,877 when I became treasurer. Again I do not claim the credit for this except for having tried to encourage the issue of as many publications as possible, and the investment of as much of “The Ringing World’s” money as could be spared - a suggestion which incidentally came from Mr. F. E. Dukes at the 1953 meeting and which met with some opposition in the early years. The Council is fortunate in that my successor will take a keen interest in its financial affairs. May I conclude by wishing him as happy a term of office as I have had.

Mr. A. V. Davis took exception to the opinion expressed by the hon. secretary that at Truro two notices of motion put forward by representatives of the Durham and Newcastle Association were not treated seriously and the Council was guilty of gross discourtesy to those concerned. He thought it would be better expressed as with some levity but not gross discourtesy.

The report was then adopted, the president thanking Mr. Barnett for the painstaking way he had compiled the report.

The minutes as published in “The Ringing World” of March 25th were adopted on the proposition of the hon. secretary, seconded by Mr. F. W. Perrens.

The Ringing World, June 10, 1966, pages 372 to 373, correction July 1, 1966, page 431

Strong Urge for Bigger and Brighter “Ringing World”

CIRCULATION DRIVE DEMANDED. - NEW BLOOD INJECTED INTO COMMITTEE TO PRODUCE CONSTRUCTIVE IDEAS. - IMPORTANCE OF RETAINING CAPITAL. - EDITOR TELLS OF HIS PROBLEMS.

Although when this report is being prepared the accounts for 1965 are not completed, it is understood that the figures will once more show a surplus. A detailed analysis is not, however, possible and must await the meeting of the Council.

The year has not been uneventful in that further changes took place at the printers culminating in a removal of the Editor’s office back to Onslow Street, Guildford. These changes placed a heavy burden on Mr. White but he has throughout ensured the regular weekly despatch of copies.

Continued pressure by wholesalers on our publishers left them with no alternative but to seek a reduction in their price to us. During negotiations certain suggestions were made to them, particularly concerning the despatch of copies direct from the printers. This angle is being explored by the publishers, and if satisfactory arrangements can be made along these lines it is hoped that our price can be maintained.

Wages in the printing trade were last increased in January, 1965, and we are grateful to our printers, who throughout the year refrained from passing on to us any of their additional costs. We have, however, now been informed that an increase in their charge is inevitable.

Your committee have decided that the price of “The Ringing World” will not be raised at least during 1966, except that if postal rates are raised it may be necessary to pass on such increase to new subscribers. The printers have intimated that a further review of costs and charges will be necessary at the end of 1966 but your committee hope that if costs are further increased these can also be absorbed.

During the year your editor took part with others in a visit to Australia, New Zealand and the United States of America, and we are grateful to Miss Y. Eloie, to Mr. H. C. Aldhous and not least to Mrs. Lucas for carrying on in his absence. Many have expressed appreciation of the report of the tour by Mr. White published over a period in “The Ringing World.”

Your committee are grateful to all, including the Associations who send contributions to “The Ringing World” and offer them our sincere thanks. Your committee also wish to thank the retiring secretary, Mr. E. A. Barnett, for the help he has given them over many years and wish him and Mrs. Barnett many more happy years, especially in our Exercise.

Annually repeated, but nevertheless sincerely, your committee once more place on record their appreciation of the services rendered to “The Ringing World” by Mr. T. W. White and Mrs. Lucas at Guildford, by Mr. Jeater for his work on the accounts, by Mr. Roper for his compilation of the index, and all who throughout the year, either as readers or contributors, have helped the paper.

Editorial office expenses: Editor’s fees and bonus expenses £917 1s. (£774); clerical assistance £293 10s. (£260); postage and sundries £34 5s. (£34); total £1,244 16s.

Postal subscribers: Despatch of copies £1,531 3s. 10d. (£1,413); addressing and wrappers £440 15s. 9d. (£423); total £1,971 19s. 7d.

Accounts Department: Clerical assistance and expenses £234 (£234); postage £31 5s. (£27); stationery and sundries £29 5s. 10d. (£50); total £294 10s. 10d.

Cr. By Rolls Publishing Company £3,027 12s. 9d. (£2,686); postal subscribers £5,220 8s. 10d. (£4,491); donations £676 4s. 10d. (£561); advertisements £582 14s. (£531); notices and peal reports £729 0s. 11d. (£697); sundry receipts £79 0s. 3d. (£84); interest on investments £412 6s. 2d. (£339); grand total £10,727 15s. 9d. (£9,389).

Sundry creditors £1,154 4s. 6d. (£796); amounts received in advance - Postal subscriptions and notices £1,971 6s. 4d. (£1,546); capital account, balance at 1/1/65 £8,692 5s. 10d., add profit for year £1,097 12s. 10d., making a total of £9,789 18s. 8d.; on behalf of Central Council £750; grand total £12,915 9s. 6d. (£11,034).

Debtors £1,236 3s. 5d. (£1,019); investments at cost £9,000 (£7,500); cash at bankers £2,443 6s. 11d.; in hand £1; total £2,444 6s. 11d. (£2,280); amount due from Central Council £234 19s. 2d (£235); grand total £12,915 9s. 6d.

THE DEBATE

Mr. R. A. Anderson, presenting the report, said if they examined the income and Expenditure Account they would find that, as with all businesses today, expenditure was increasing. Printing costs were slightly higher, block prices were higher, wages and salaries were up, postage had increased. The fee they paid their auditor was higher, but those who had any knowledge of business would know that for a turnover of over £10,000 the fees were remarkably low.

Of the present circulation of 5,600, postal copies were 2,700 and those sold through the newsagents just under 3,000. This position was reversed in the case of income - publishers’ sales being 36.7 and postal subscribers 63.3 per cent.

The net income from investments had increased and they would notice that there had been a shifting in the investments. They had now money in a building society and money invested with Brighton Corporation, both of which were trustee securities. They had also taken the advise of their accountant where money had been invested in high income unit trust.

The surplus of income over expenditure had increased. They had taken steps to cover the increase in printing charges in 1965 and these did not occur. This was due to the munificence of the printers and he would like to place on record their gratitude to their printers in not passing on this charge. There was, however, an increase this year and it operated from March. The increase was roughly 3.3 per cent. on printing cost. In a full year it would cost £400, and the current year just over £210. This would be reflected in the accounts next Whitsun. There was one possible increased charge - the Selective Employment Tax. At the moment from the beginning of September, “The Ringing World” would be liable for the tax, but unless further orders were issued they would be able to claim that back in full in February.

The present circulation was about 5,600 and represented an increase compared with a year ago of about 120 to 130. He was not going to plead poverty. They had some money that had been gathered by the judicious operating of funds by his predecessor and they had to thank him that “The Ringing World” account was in a good position today.

The secretary stated that the Standing Committee recommended the adoption of the report and accounts, also the re-election of the committee and the addition of Mr. D. Bayles.

Mr. G. W. Pipe said he would like to start by expressing his and their warm thanks to the editor and to the convener of “The Ringing World” Committee, who had put in a tremendous amount of work.

He could not help feeling that “The Ringing World” report resolved itself into the financial affairs of the journal and was concerned purely with the financial side. He thought it was time that they looked at the other side than the actual accounts. Many people were not really satisfied with the contents. He did not want to make a comment like that without some serious thought. It was poorly laid out and the quality of the paper used was also very poor.

Mr. Pipe concluded by saying that if some constructive thought was given to the layout of the paper he was confident that the number of subscribers could be doubled. He had a series of 20 suggestions and criticisms which he would ask “The Ringing World” Committee to consider (applause).

Mr. Dennis Beresford (Society of Royal Cumberland Youths) said he would like to support wholeheartedly what George Pipe had said. They wanted a new committee with original ideas. They did not criticise the men concerned with “The Ringing World” because they had had a most difficult job in the past but they wanted a committee of people like George Pipe, with extremely constructive ideas, people like Vernon Bottomley to provide a financial background, and Edgar Shepherd to serve on the committee to give it the scholarship that was necessary. These suggestions were not intended as criticism of the editor, for whom he had the highest regard. What he wanted was a dynamic committee behind him. If they developed along these lines they could expect “The Ringing World” to adopt a forward-looking attitude (applause).

The Rev. John Scott said he came up by train and he went to the station bookstall at Exeter and there was nothing to suggest that “The Ringing World” existed. He would like to backup what had been said if anything was done about it. Two years ago Vic Shepherd levelled some criticism about the front page of “The Ringing World,” but his observations were not taken seriously. No praise could be too high for the editor, but a larger committee was needed.

Mr. Norman Chaddock said he found he could get youth to take “The Ringing World” for a quarter- or a half-year. They then ceased because there was little in “The Ringing World” to interest them. Over the years “The Ringing World” Committee had been working in a financial strait-jacket. He would ask the committee not to worry about loss even if it amounted to a thousand or two if it could increase the sale of the paper. There was something like £8,000 of £9,000 in reserve so they could continue. He suggested that the editor did not receive sufficiently good contributions.

A member suggested that the committee were mean in their approach. They had some very fine writers. Why should they not give a small honorarium to some of the people to encourage more good articles?

Mr. T. W. White, the editor, in reply, said he had not seen the 20 suggestions of Mr. G. W. Pipe, but some time ago Mr. Pipe sent him some suggestions which were sent to the convener and every one of these suggestions had been previously thought of and considered by the committee.

The position of “The Ringing World” today was that it was governed by peals. These had to be published, and in a heavy peal ringing year like the past other feature articles had to be relegated. As editor he had been seriously criticised for publishing the Collection of Doubles Methods as a waste of space and of no interest to readers. But it was a best seller. He had been greatly worried that adequate attention had not been given to compositions - very few of the many submitted were published.

In considering the contents of the journal they had to remember there were 60 Associations affiliated to the Central Council and each of these had a right to have reports of their proceedings published, even if abbreviated. One way of brightening “The Ringing World” was to have more attractive advertisements and the introduction of display announcements of meetings added a touch of brightness. It must be remembered that “The Ringing World” had a limited field for advertisements, but in its own field it was unique. National publishers had found this in regard to sales of ringing books; in one case three-quarters of their sales came through “The Ringing World” and yet their charges for advertisements were the lowest.

“Don’t think that brightening the paper will double the circulation. It will not.”

One leading ringer gave him the figure of 6,000 as the maximum that would be received. There was a great difficulty in holding subscriptions and he knew that in that room there were members of the Central Council who had allowed their subscriptions to lapse! Despite that there was an upward trend.

Dr. D. E. Sibson said Mr. White had answered some of the points but he had blamed peal ringers for the shortage of space. If there was not enough room the size of the paper should be increased and the price increased accordingly. He thought the editor had taken a very conservative view - they should be able to increase their circulation above 6,000. There had been little change throughout the years. Why not make an effort to make it more presentable?

Mr. John Freeman (vice-chairman) said he had listened with interest to the ideas expressed and it appeared that there were two distinct camps. On the one hand they had critics who wanted a more dynamic committee and on the other hand there was a committee with day to day experience. He was not sold on the idea that improving the cover would increase the circulation. He still liked the present form but they should not disregard the ideas of the critics.

For many years the report of the Lincoln Diocesan Guild was in a set form. It was decided to alter it and this was done by a special committee with satisfactory results. He suggested that an ad hoc committee should be formed of the present committee and some of the critics to examine the position and present their views to the Council.

The Rev. John Scott seconded and Canon K. W. H. Felstead gave the proposal his support.

Mr. R. S. Anderson, convener of “The Ringing World” Committee, said the committee was the servant of the Council and would abide by the Council’s decisions. There were two or three points he would like to make. The first was on circulation and price. We would like to remind the Council that a few years ago the price was raised by 2d. to 8d. At that time the circulation was over 6,000. With “The Ringing World” at 8d. the circulation dropped by 1,000. He knew people had said if the price of “The Ringing World” went up again they would drop it and they heard that day that certain members of the Council had not renewed their subscriptions - well, perhaps they were now getting it through their newsagent or another source.

The question of layout had been raised. Some years ago suggestions were asked for designs for a new front page. They had some very good designs but they were all rejected by the Council. It had been suggested that the size of the paper be increased. The difference in cost between a 16-page and 24-page issue was £50. He did not think the funds available would extend to one such issue a week. The net income from investments was £268 and the amount of donations was £676, giving a total of £934 against a surplus of £1,047.

Mr. Brian D. Threlfall (Cambridge University) asked if it would be possible to confine the paper to postal subscribers. Was there any legal objection?

Mr. W. B. Cartwright (Worcester and Districts): If you give me the contract I will do it (laughter).

Mr. J. F. Smallwood said the committee had tried to serve the Exercise and do its best. Some of the suggestions made that day made him smile. The committee had been hit by continuous rising prices and had been bound hand and foot. All sorts of ideas had been suggested and they were uncertain of adopting them as they feared they would not come out the right side. They could find plenty of means of disposing of the balance they had built up. The solution of a better “Ringing World” was with the Exercise. He did not agree that 6,000 was the limit. He always maintained that a circulation of 10,000 could be obtained if they backed up the committee.

With regard to the format he must admit that he did not like it but it had been forced upon them. There was a time when they could have five peals to a column; now they had reached eight peals.

He would like to see it brighter. With reference to the suggestion that beginners were not catered for, how did they propose they do so? They were well catered for by the Publications Department, and they could not put in a lot of kindergarten stuff. Beginners were important, but he did not think a series of elementary articles running through the paper which would have to be repeated year by year, was the answer.

“I make no apologies for what we have done; we have worked hard. Please remember the solution is that you get the circulation and then you can spread the news over in a bigger and brighter paper.”

Mr. W. T. Cook (Ancient Society of College Youths) supported Mr. Freeman’s suggestion of an ad hoc committee. It might be that the committee would find it was not able to do much to improve the journal. The committee might feel that the picture which had been on the front since “The Ringing World” was founded in 1911 should remain. He hoped there would be many critics and then they might get something done.

The president proposed that an ad hoc committee be appointed with the vice-president as chairman. He suggested that the vice-chairman invite certain members of the Council to work with “The Ringing World” Committee on an ad hoc committee and report to the Central Council next year.

Mr. A. D. Barker (London County Association) seconded the president’s suggestion.

Mr. P. A. Corby (Kent County Association) asked if the president had in mind Motions 14b and 14c. Would it not be wise to discuss these proposals first?

The President: If the ad hoc committee was formed it could look into these motions.

Mr. F. E. Dukes (Irish Association) held that “The Ringing World” Committee should be elected first.

Mrs. P. J. Staniforth (Ladies’ Guild) thought members of the ad hoc committee should be elected from the floor.

Mr. J. Freeman considered that the ad hoc committee should not interfere with “The Ringing World” Committee. He agreed with the ad hoc committee being elected from the floor of the house.

Mr. J. G. M. Scott (Guild of Devonshire Ringers) proposed, and Mr. John Worth (Chester Guild) seconded, that the present “Ringing World” Committee with Mr. Dennis Bayles be re-elected.

Mr. D. Beresford proposed Mr. G. W. Pipe and Mr. R. F. B. Speed be elected to the committee.

The president then suggested an adjournment for lunch so that the position could be talked over and, if possible, clarified.

Mr. R. F. B. Speed (hon. member) was the first speaker after lunch. He strongly disagreed with an ad hoc committee and thought the approach should be to modify the committee as it stood. He did not think it would do any good to have a large number on the committee - it was not practicable. He would not like to see the committee re-elected with additions as there were some he would like to see on and others he would not. He proposed that members be voted on individually and not by a block vote.

Mr. F. B. Lufkin (Essex Association) was against an ad hoc committee. There was a lot said with which he disagreed but there was one thing they agreed on - that there was a large measure of dissatisfaction. The committee did need some new blood. Much the committee had done was very good and they knew the facts but they needed some new members with new ideas.

Mr. P. J. Staniforth (Leicester Diocesan Guild): Let’s all be for “The Ringing World” and not against it.

Mr. Harold Rogers (London County Association) wanted to make four points. First of all he was delighted with the discussion. There were some 2,000 trade and technical journals and they had to look at the position as they had. Many had said “We must change our format, have a new look and a new policy.” Whatever they did with the election of the committee he would like to see a complete proposal for dealing with “The Ringing World” within six months. They could not afford to ignore the financial position; they must work within their limits. If the committee were sufficiently forward with their proposals in six months they should have a meeting of the Council either in London or Birmingham. If they had a “Ringing World” report it should come from the committee and not just signed by the convener.

Mr. R. S. Anderson corrected Mr. Rogers. The report, he said, was that of the committee and not the convener.

To clarify the position the president took a vote on the formation of an ad hoc committee. There were only nine votes for it and an overwhelming majority against.

It was then decided that the committee should consist of six members and they should be elected individually. The following were then nominated: Messrs. D. Beresford, W. G. Wilson, R. S. Anderson, G. W. Pipe, J. F. Smallwood, F. I. Hairs, Mrs. P. J. Staniforth, Mr. D. Bayles, Dr. C. M. P. Johnson and Mr. P. Gray. A ballot was demanded and Messrs. W. Ayre and E. Naylor elected tellers with assistants from the Bath and Wells Association. Later it was announced that the following had been elected: Messrs. W. G. Wilson, D. Beresford, R. S. Anderson, G. W. Pipe, J. F. Smallwood and D. Bayles. Mr. Anderson was appointed convener.

Motions Unacceptable

On behalf of the Guild of Devonshire Ringers the Rev. J. G. M. Scott proposed and Miss B. M. Boyle seconded:

“That the names of those taking part in peals reported in ‘The Ringing World’ be not published except after payment to ‘The Ringing World’ of not less than sixpence for each person taking part in the peal.”

Mr. Scott, in moving the motion, said that peals certainly were news and must be published. He suggested that “The Ringing World” should print the record of peals, but only the names of those who paid. The national Press dropped names - they were not published. The Records Committee only published the peals; there were no names. Mr. Mehew, in his letter to “The Ringing World” asked “What happens if one ringer refuses to pay?” Mr. Scott’s reply was that he could not imagine any ringer being so low-spirited not to disgorge sixpence for his name to be printed.

Mr. T. W. White asked if the motion was carried, how could he present reports with two or three blank spaces in peals. Could they imagine a record length being rung without the names being published?

Mr. A. V. Davis (Winchester and Portsmouth) moved: “That this Council invites all affiliated Societies to contribute a sum of not less than three guineas per representative annually towards the cost of maintaining ‘The Ringing World.’”

He thought the motion, which was an invitation to help, would encourage the committee to produce a new and better “Ringing World.” He was amazed to read a letter discussing this motion in “The Ringing World” before it had been before the Council, and he wondered if it was the right thing to do. He did not think the views of Mr. Wilfrid G. Wilson were the views of the committee. He put forward the motion with the object of interesting Associations in “The Ringing World.”

Canon Felstead described it as a private member’s motion. For years “The Ringing World” had been in a precarious state and this might do away with voluntary donations.

Mr. P. A. Gray liked the idea of involving Associations in “The Ringing World” but felt that the running of the journal should be left to the new committee. He proposed that the Council pass on to the next business and this was agreed to.

LEAVING R.W. COMMITTEE

Mr. W. Dobbie moved that the Council express its thanks to the retiring member of “The Ringing World” Committee - Mr. F. I. Hairs. He had been a member of the committee for 15 years and had worked very hard for it. He would also like to congratulate Mr. and Mrs. Hairs on their golden wedding anniversary. They rang on that date a peal of Stedman Caters “in hand,” conducted by the vice-president of the Council. They rang a similar peal on their wedding conducted by the late A. H. Pulling.

THE ACCOUNTS

Committee expenses: Towers and Belfries £20 8s. 8d.; broadcasting television £3 3s. 5d.; Sunday service £2 19s.; Total £26 11s. 1d.

Officers’ expenses £11 11s. 3d.; stationery and printing £20 17s. 6d.; postage and telephone £9 9s.; wreaths - Mrs. E. K. Fletcher and J. T. Dyke £4 5s.; typing £5 5s.; binding “Ringing World” £2 2s.; cheque book 10s.; excess of income over expenditure £82 10s. 1d.

Income was affiliation fees £82 10s.; profit on publication account £87 4s. 5d.

Creditors: “The Ringing World” £234 19s. 2d.; Towers and Belfries Committee £18 18s. 8d.; Biographies Committee £1 13s. 5d.; president £1 11s. 3d.; total £257 2s. 6d. The balance on capital account had been increased by £87 4s. 4d. to £932 9s. 11d.

Library £10; stock of publications £755 9s. 2d.; cash at bank £68 6s. 10d.; cash hon. librarian £354 16s. 5d.

The consolidated balance sheet showed capital accounts at £11,588 10s. 4d., viz. “The Ringing World” £9,789 18s. 8d., General Fund £932 9s. 11d., Clement Glenn Fund £866 1s. 9d.

Stock 1/1/65 £820 2s. 8d.; purchases 1,500 Surprise Methods £130; 2,000 Ringing for Service £55 1s. 6d.; 250 Symbolic Treatment of False Course Heads £17 17s.; total £208 18s. 6d. Postage £41 17s. 6d., profit to General Fund £87 4s. 5d.

Sale of publications less discounts £401 9s. 3d. (£345½); stock at 31/12/65 £755 9s. 2d.

From the Clement Glenn bequest 3,000 Belfry Prayers were purchased for £16 12s., and the film “Washington Cathedral” £39 8s. 6d. Interest on investments was £22 12s. 9d. and there was an excess of expenditure over income of £33 10s. 3d.

Mr. E. A. Barnett moved the adoption. He said this year the committee’s accounts had been much heavier and that the Towers and Belfries Committee had incurred quite a lot of expense. This had helped in the preparation of the Handbook and the Preservation of Bells. The Publications Account had an extremely good year and receipts were a record. Most satisfactory was that they were able to refrain from qualms about meeting the bills. The Clement Glenn bequest was down through payment for the Washington film. The small profit they had made on that would be shown next year.

The hon. secretary reported that it was a record attendance with 158 out of a possible 191. Last year at Northampton the attendance was 145, and the year before at Truro 140.

Most Regions have had Ringing Features

ALTHOUGH there was reference in the report for 1964 to the broadcast of the bells of St. Paul’s Cathedral in January, 1965, it is fitting that mention of this should be made here. First-class ringing on one of the finest rings of twelve in the country was a worthy tribute to the great statesman for whose funeral it was performed.

In August the Home Service of the B.B.C. took a leaf from the book of the Light Programme and introduced its Sunday morning programme with bells. Recordings of four different churches were used and were selected from those made at different times for the Christmas Bells programme. This was a welcome indication that these recordings are being preserved by the B.B.C., a point on which we had never been assured. On more than one occasion when visiting Broadcasting House we have suggested that these recordings should form the nucleus of a “Bells Library” and be used in turn to introduce the Sunday programme, and we like to think that it is this suggestion that has borne fruit.

Great Adventure II was offered good publicity through both radio and television. There were several interviews of individual members of the party, and quite a number of the members were televised at the Church of St. Lawrence, Jewry, London, just prior to their departure, when Tom Lock told viewers where and why they were making the trip.

The Christmas Programme served up its variety of bells and ringing and some good ringing was heard, especially from the call change ringers of West Down. It must be remembered, however, that this programme is not intended as an exposition of high-class ringing on the best rings of bells, but as a cross-section of the ringing which is to be heard from churches up and down the land for the Christmas Festival, and we may be sure that all gave of their best. As in previous years, the B.B.C. invited this committee to select the towers for the programme, and the convener was invited to assist in the editing.

In the correspondence which ensued in “The Ringing World” the point has been made again that as the bells are pre-recorded and then are “put over” by the commentator as though they were ringing at the time of the broadcast the programme is false and contrary to the spirit of Christmas, and therefore should be stopped. We sympathise with this view (although not to the extent of stopping the programme) but we must be realists. The B.B.C. will not incur today the very big expense of live broadcasts on Christmas morning, and if we want this programme of bells at all (and it is the only one of its kind that we get in the course of the year) we must be content with pre-recordings. We always hope that the bells are being rung for the recordings by the ringers who will be at the ropes on Christmas morning. The practice of pre-recording religious and other programmes is very common in B.B.C. work today.

The report from the Scottish Region tells of an item before a meeting of the Presbytery of Edinburgh towards the end of the year which intrigued the Press reporters so much that it was the only item of business from the meeting to be included in the Press report. It concerned an application by a church in Edinburgh, St. Cuthbert’s, which had a plan to alter the number of bells in the ring. As result of this interest by the Press both B.B.C. and S.T.V. included in their newsflashes an interview with a ringer to explain what was involved. A report that a contract had been placed with bellfounders reached the office of “The Ringing World” and was published under “Belfry Gossip,” but it is uncertain what progress has been made.

In Ireland the bells of St Patrick’s Cathedral, Christ Church Cathedral and St. George’s Church, Dublin, St. Mary’s, Limerick, St. Mary’s, Doneraile, and St. Nicholas’, Carrickfergus, have been broadcast on both Radio Eireann and B.B.C. networks, and have put up performances which are very creditable to Irish ringing. The Irish Association is particularly proud of the Christmas broadcast from Carrickfergus.

From the Midland Region we hear of complaints from several churches that services have been broadcast without including the bells ringing beforehand and some of the protests have been addressed to the B.B.C. We have broached this subject on more than one occasion and the reply we get is that this is a matter which rests with the incumbent of the church concerned. He is allotted a specified time for the broadcast and it is up to the local ringers to persuade him to allow one or two minutes of this time for the bells. lf they succeed in that they might prevail upon him also to get the name of the captain of the ringers to be printed in the “Radio Times” together with those of the preacher and organist.

During a peal ringing tour in October George Fearn was interviewed in South Wales by the B.B.C., and this was broadcast on the Midland Region in Jack de Manio’s programme “Today.” On the same day Nicholas Simon, of Llandaff, also was interviewed and this was heard on the Welsh Region.

Bells have been heard in the North Region on several occasions preceding services broadcast by Commercial Television, and the standard has varied considerably from very good to very bad. On April 8th an item on “Change Ringing” was televised by the B.B.C. in its “Look North” programme from Newcastle, and this was described in detail in “The Ringing World” at the end of that month.

During the summer tour of the Universities Association in this area in August, Tyne Tees Television gave a short report from the belfry of SS. James and Basil’s, Newcastle. Shots of ringing were shown and Dennis Bayles was interviewed.

Cleator Moor was the tower selected from this region for the Christmas programme, and the advice we offered on the positioning the microphone and checking for balance was acted upon with good results, for the first recording was by no means satisfactory.

The West Region reports that several rings have been heard prior to morning service on Sundays and include Liskeard, St. Stephen’s, Bristol, St. Mary’s, Southampton, Cannington and Trowbridge.

On October 10th eight members of the Devonshire Guild set up a new record for the South-West by ringing 10,240 changes of Plain Bob Major, and the band was filmed by B.B.C.

In July, from St. Paul’s, Yelverton, the filming of a bell as it left to be carried to Borneo on the aircraft carrier “Eagle” was covered by the B.B.C. The bell was given to the church originally by a retired admiral, but had not been used for 16 years. Both these films were seen on television.

At Cardiff the B.B.C. recorded and filmed some ringing and interviewed the tower captain, Mr. Thomas Yeomans, for a broadcast on New Year’s Eve. From this region we heard the bells of West Down at Christmas, and Wales was represented by Talgarth.

Items of news from East Anglia include the interviewing of Oliver Barnard by both Anglia and B.B.C. Television regarding Stowmarket bells and their restoration. The order for this work to be done has been placed.

Cecil Pipe was interviewed on Anglia Television prior to his departure for Australia for Great Adventure II, and his son George talked about ringing overseas. Work on the new light six at Scole was also shown on B.B.C. Television.

The B.B.C. made for television a film about “The Fens” and included in it shots of the ringers and bells of St. Andrew’s Church, Sutton, in action. The bells were needed to indicate the old custom of raising the Flood Alarm.

At Leighton Buzzard, Hunts, on Whit Sunday, the bells were rung for morning service at which the sermon was preached by the Lord Bishop of Ely, who afterwards went into the belfry and rang the 21 cwt. tenor to rounds. All this was seen and heard on B.BC. television on the following evening.

In the London Region, W. H. Coles arranged and compered very good programme on radio featuring Mrs. A. A. Hughes playing tunes in her inimitable way, the Ottery St. Mary handbell ringers ringing tunes, Stedman Cinques lapped by the Appleton band, Spliced Surprise “in hand” by John Mayne’s band, handbell tune ringers from America and a talk on the making and tuning of handbells by Mr. Oliver, the tuner at Whitechapel Bell Foundry.

From Canada we learn that the Benedictines of Westminster Abbey, Mission City, B.C., rang Grandsire Caters for Christmas over C.B.C. This was its conjunction with a programme of Gregorian Chant. Father Dunstan Massey, O.S.B. is the Ringing Master there.

H. N. PITSTOW (Convener), Saffron, High Street, Banstead, Surrey.
D. A. BAYLES, J. DUNWOODY, G. E. FEARN, H. J. SANGER, A. G. G. THURLOW, R. S. WILSON.

Mr. H. N. Pitstow (hon. member) moved the adoption. He said there was a slight inaccuracy in the second paragraph - one of the recordings was not selected for the Christmas broadcast. There was also a reference that the B.B.C. was retaining the records of Christmas bells. This was not quite correct: they were retaining those that could be used. From the last broadcast the B.B.C. were considering the permanent retaining of Carrickfergus and West Down recordings.

Mr. W. Ayre proposed the re-election of the committee as follows: Messrs. H. N. Pitstow, D. A. Bayles, J. Dunwoody, G. E. Fearn, H. J. Sanger, Rev. A. G. G. Thurlow and Mr. R. S. Wilson.

Big Development in Weekend Courses

NORMAN CHADDOCK (Convener), 17, Herringthorpe Grove, Broom, Rotherham.
F. SHARPE, W. F. MORETON, M. R. CROSS, F. B. LUFKIN.

The adoption was moved by Mr. N. Chaddock (Sheffield and District), who asked for permission to proceed with the “Tutors’ Handbook.” They were also taking part in a publicity campaign at Brecon in July. Mr. F. Lufkin had stood down from the committee and Mrs. Staniforth had undertaken correspondence with theological colleges.

Mr. H. Rogers said the committee was not the first body to think about a manual for instructors - it was being considered nationally. Most certainly this was a very definite requirement. It might not be possible to put it in book form by the next Council meeting but they should be able to see the manuscript and perhaps in a restrictive form.

Mrs. Staniforth, Messrs. Chaddock, W. F. Moreton, F. Sharpe and Miss M. R. Cross were elected to the committee.

METHODS COMMITTEE

Mr. G. Dodds (Herts County Association) said he noticed that a new edition of Plain Major Collection was to be printed. Could it include Double Change methods and true extensions to Royal and Maximus?

Mr. Blagrove thought the Council should thank Mr. J. R. Mayne for his hard work. He thought it was right to say that the Collection of Surprise methods was by John Mayne. They owed him a great debt of gratitude (hear, hear).

Mr. R. F. B. Speed moved that Mr. Stephen Ivin (Oxford University Society) be added to the committee and this was agreed to.

NO DICTATION TO GUILDS

There were three notices of motion, the first relating to non-resident life members’ subscriptions. The other two, relating to “The Ringing World,” are reported following the debate on page 388.

The first, proposed by Mr. C. K. Lewis and seconded by Mr. John Worth (Chester Diocesan Guild) read: “That this Council favours all affiliated Societies fixing the rate of their non-resident life membership subscription at a figure which does not exceed one and a half times the resident members subscription.”

Mr. Lewis said there was a big variation, and high non-resident subscriptions gave rise to many non-Association peals.

Mr. N. Diserens (Oxford Diocesan Guild) said they must keep in mind the relative position of non-resident members. In the Oxford Guild non-residents had full rights and that justified a higher subscription than in a Guild where non-residents had no rights.

Mr. W. E. Critchley (Yorkshire Association) said that he was rather surprised that Mr. Lewis was wasting time on this matter. He must know it was a waste of time as no Guild was going to be dictated to.

Mr. D. Carlisle (Derby Diocesan Association) also appealed to the Council to reject the motion. Don’t penalise keen youngsters, he implored.

TABLE OF FIRST PERFORMANCES

A. SURPRISE MAJOR METHODS

Alford, 24-6-65, Willesden, 27B.
Bloxham, 4-12-65, Bloxham, 5B.
Brentham, 16-12-65, Willesden, 28B.
Chelsfield, 15-5-65, Deddington, 20B.
Chorley, 4-7-65, Chorley, 4B.
Debenham, 18-4-65, Debenham, 10B.
Deddington, 20-2-65, Deddington, 13B.
Ditcheat, 22-4-65, Willesden, 16B.
Douai, 27-3-65, Aldermaston, 22B.
Eccleston, 6-3-65, Dartford, 23B.
Filton, 22-1-65, Bristol Cathedral, 9B.
Finborough, 10-9-65, Debenham, 17B.
Finedon, 9-1-65, Finedon, 12B.
Griffin, 23-3-65, St. Ambrose, Bristol, 6B.
Henley, 10-7-65, Kirtlington, 31B.
Highclere, 12-9-65, Highclere, 24B.
Kippen, 26-6-65, Ambrosden, 14B.
Lusitania, 27-7-65, Loughborough Foundry, 7B.
Marsham, 18-11-65, Willesden, 21B.
Mauretania, 30-1-65, Knowle, Bristol, 8B.
Nantwich, 13-12-65, Edenham, 1B.
Quantock, 25-1-65, Sutterton, 15B.
Selwood, 18-9-65, Ashton-under-Lyne, 25B.
Shepperton, 21-1-65, Willesden, 26B.
Skelton, 6-8-65, Skelton-in-Cleveland, 19B.
Sprotborough, 10-6-65, Willesden, 29B.
Thurston, 4-11-65, Willesden, 3B.
Uffington, 15-2-65, Pinchbeck, 2B.
Uppingham, 20-5-65, Willesden, 30B.
Wyrardisbury, 8-7-65, Willesden, 18B.
Xingu, 8-2-65, Edenham, 11B.

B. SURPRISE ROYAL METHODS

Fulham, 20-2-65, Hillingdon, 35B.
Gosforth, rung in spliced, 34B.
Minehead, rung in spliced, 33B.
Primrose, 10-7-65, Christ Church, Macclesfield, 32B.

ERRATA FOR 1964 APPENDIX

Alderney, 20-10-64, St. Ebbe’s, Oxford, 61.
Ilminster, 20-4-64, Sutterton, 36B.

The Ringing World, June 17, 1966, page 390, corrections July 15, 1966, page 461

Outstanding Publicity Event - Great Adventure II

THE outstanding event of the year which received publicity was undoubtedly “Great Adventure II,” states the Literature and Press Committee. The party of ringers led by Mr. Tom Lock were royally received almost everywhere they went. They were interviewed over many hours and their photographs appeared in many papers. The visit created wide interest in the Press. Before the arrival in Perth there was a page in the local paper devoted to bells and ringing. At Melbourne an early breakfast at Ballarat was necessary to keep a Press appointment and the local Ballarat daily gave a front page picture of the tourists being received by the Mayor. Similar treatment was meted out at Bendigo. A Roman Catholic weekly published in Melbourne produced a photograph of Mr. Wilfred Williams and, on account of his association with St. Paul’s, he was frequently interviewed by various journalists.

Tom Lock, the leader of the party, had to suffer long interviews, mostly late into the night. The morning and evening papers at Sydney, Maryborough, and Christchurch, New Zealand, published well-informed articles and accounts of the tour.

The “Church Times” usually contains references to bells. One such notice made mention of the bells in the Loughborough Bell Foundry. Others paid attention to young ringers. References were made to the “Great Adventure II” and the Central Council meeting at Northampton. The “Church Times,” being a widely read paper, should be supported by contributing articles and items of interest for publication.

The newspaper references received have produced some interesting and well-informed material. For example, Leslie Geddes-Brown in the “Northern Echo” cannot understand why a church should be understaffed in the belfry. She considers bellringing is fun and relates her experiences since she learned to ring a bell while still at school. In the “Bolton Journal” Mr. Peter Crook (now deceased) was featured and a photograph shows him with the model of a church bell bequeathed to him by the late Canon Elsee. The “Young Topics” column of the “Daily Telegraph” got down to handbell ringing and described bands of handbell ringers in the various parts of the country.

Captain Marybelle Nissly, of the U.S. Air Force, monopolised a page in the “Stars and Stripes.” She is photographed at the rope of a bell and is seen polishing one of her collection of handbells. Marybelle’s introduction to bells occurred when she was associated with the W.A.F. Band.

Miss Ida Grehan’s article in the “Irish Times” related what she saw and learned during a visit to the Fountain Head Bell Foundry in Dublin. She raised a query as to whether women had entered the bellringing preserves of man. This brought a letter from the general secretary of the Irish Association which revealed the part of the fairer sex in the field of campanology.

We are pleased to note fewer complaints about ringing. The most prominent was in relation to the Selly Oak Parish Church bells, when a resident complained in the local Press about a weekly practice. Several replies were published and the general consensus of opinion was very much against the complaint.

In trade magazines there was quite a spate of articles. “The Church and School Equipment News” presented a suggested design for a modern tower. A model of this bell tower was on display at the CASEX exhibition at Earls Court in June. The Church Bells of Rotherham were featured in the “Phœnix Gazette,” Rowntree’s magazine “C.W.M,” contained an article by C. J. Groome of the Marketing Department, and the two pages devoted to ringing and change ringing reflected the author’s knowledge of the art. Leslie E. Wells’ article, “Message of the Bells,” in the “Standard Review,” dealt with the history of bells from earliest times to the present day. Bell casting and tuning were touched upon and the article concluded with a description of ringing and change ringing. Altogether it is as a well-written, concise and informative essay.

“Bell Ringing Delights” by Mary Freer was produced in the “Chelmsford Gardeners’ Magazine.” This paper is printed for circulation amongst members of the gardeners’ club only. The notes describe Miss Freer’s experiences as a ringer and her attitude to ringing as a hobby. An article on Winchester Cathedral making references to its bells appeared in “Morgan’s Magazine.”

During the year the “Irish Bell News,” “The Belfry,” “Ringing Towers” and “Overtones” maintained production and appeared regularly.

Publications during the year were greater than previously and a summary of them is appended:-

“Change Ringing - the Art and Science of Change Ringing on Church- and Handbells,” by Wilfrid G. Wilson.

Mr. Wilson’s “Change Ringing,” which is a successor to Colonel Troyte’s “Handbook on Change Ringing,” contains the author’s previous work, which was published as the “Beginners’ Handbook.” The new work covers a wide field and should take its place on every ringer’s bookshelf.

The amount of material received is less than in the previous year and it must be appreciated that our task is not made easier by the lack of information about bells and ringers which may be published from time to time. We once again appeal to the various Associations to forward to us copies of newspaper cuttings and other references to the art.

We again express our thanks to all who kindly forwarded to us the material upon which this report is prepared.

EDGAR C. SHEPHERD (Convener), 46, Manor Gardens, Warminster, Wilts.
FRED E. DUKES.

Mr. E. C. Shepherd proposed and Mr. F. E. Dukes seconded the adoption of the report.

The Rev. J. G. M. Scott called attention to “The Guardian” giving a half-page review of Mr. Wilson’s book “Change Ringing.”

JOHN CARTER RINGING MACHINE

On April 24th the trustees spent a day with the machine and traced a minor fault which had given trouble, and corrected it. Following this, touches of London, Cambridge, Plain Bob and Stedman were successfully rung.

On December 17th the machine was demonstrated to a party of ringers from Redditch and on December 18th the first meeting to instruct four candidates interested in becoming demonstrators. At the end of the day just before the Museum closed a further minor fault developed, but there was insufficient time available to remedy it.

It is hoped to continue the meetings of these demonstrators to ensure continuity, and it is anticipated that at the next meeting this minor fault will be corrected.

Mr. D. Hughes moved the adoption of the report and Mr. F. E. Dukes seconded. The report was adopted and Messrs. D. Hughes and F. E. Haynes were re-elected to the committee.

PEALS COLLECTION COMMITTEE

The collection of Major methods is now ready for printing and will be available shortly. It was found that the proving of the peals, particularly the Spliced Surprise, took rather longer than was at first anticipated. The committee would welcome suggestions for further publications which might be considered desirable.

W. E. CRITCHLEY (Convener), 28 Brompton Road, Sprotborough Road, Doncaster, Yorks.
G. E. FEIRN, A. J. PITMAN, R. F. B. SPEED.

Proposing the adoption of the report, Mr. W. Eric Critchley (Yorkshire Association) said apart from underlining the request for further publications he had nothing to add. Mr. R. F. B. Speed seconded and the report was adopted. The committee was re-elected en bloc on the proposition of Mr. W. F. Moreton, seconded by Mr. N. Golden.

Peals Analysis Committee Reports Big Increase

THE peal totals for the year 1965 once more show an increase and the figures, including late arrivals up to “The Ringing World” issue of March 11th, give 3,222 for tower bells and 273 for handbells, an increase of 171 on 1964. One cause of the increase in the tower bell peals was the sincere expression by our fraternity of the great affection of the nation for that fine old gentleman Sir Winston S. Churchill on the occasion of his passing to higher service.

This Year the Oxford Guild has attained the “head of the list” with the Lincoln Guild close behind. The first eight are as follows:

A most gratifying, encouraging sign for the future is in the total of first pealers - 644; with 99 making their first appearance as conductor.

The Australian Tour produced 15 peals during which valuable assistance and advice was given to our friends “down under.”

Bath and Wells: Three times we have four first peals and first as conductor; first-pealer over 60.

Hertford: First as conductor with five firsts in peal (three methods - Doubles).

St. Martin’s Guild: First of Triples - with first as conductor and four firsts.

Cambridge Maximus at Exeter - Guild of Devonshire - with Peter Border ringing the tenor single-handed - an excellent performance. Also for the same Guild - 10,240 Plain Bob Major.

Gloucester and Bristol: Spliced Surprise Major in 28, 25, 22, 18, 16, 14, 11 methods.

Hertford County: Handbells, Spliced Surprise Major in 23, 20, 18, 16, 14, 11 methods.

Lancashire Association: Cambridge Maximus at Liverpool Cathedral; 10,080 and 17,248 Yorkshire Surprise Major.

Southwell Diocesan: Minor, 5 methods; Doubles, 12,720, and 135, 126, 100, 70, 44 methods.

Yorkshire Association: Spliced Surprise Royal, 42 methods; Spliced Surprise Major, 12 methods. A peal on the lightest ring.

Three Associations, Guilds. etc., rang no peals; three rang 1 peal; eleven rang 2-10, two rang 11-20; six rang 21-30; five rang 31-40; three rang 41-50; five rang 51-60; one rang 61-70; five rang 71-80; one rang 81-90; two rang 91-100; two rang 101-110; four rang 111-120.

TOWER
	1965	1964
Maximus	89	64	+	25
Cinques	62	54	+	8
Royal	193	187	+	6
Caters	104	89	+	15
Major	1363	1349	+	14
Triples	248	196	+	52
Minor	886	823	+	63
Doubles	274	290	-	16
Minimus	3	4	-	1

	3222	3056	+	166

HANDBELLS
	1965	1964
Maximus	3	2	+	1
Cinques	-	1	-	1
Royal	13	10	+	3
Caters	4	3	+	1
Major	96	111	-	15
Triples	9	1	+	8
Minor	131	127	+	4
Doubles	17	13	+	4
Minimus	-	-		-

	273	268	+	5

W. AYRE (Convener), The Old School House, Leverstock Green, Hemel Hempstead, Herts.
K. W. H. FELSTEAD, H. L. ROPER.

Mr. Walter Ayer, in moving the adoption of the report, made two corrections. In the Swansea and Brecon Guild there were five peals of Caters instead of five peals of Royal, and one peal of Triples rung for the Peterborough Guild was now transferred to Non-Association. In the meritorious performances he called attention to the peal of Cambridge Maximus at Exeter and Mr. Peter Border’s magnificent effort on the tenor. Also the first peal of Maximus outside Great Britain, at Melbourne. In the outstanding performances there should be recorded the seven peals of Surprise Major rung at Loughborough in seven different methods with seven different conductors.

The committee was re-elected on the proposition of Mr. F. E. Dukes, seconded by Mr. A. D. Barker.

Central Council Sales Reach Record Figure

THE large increase in the sale of publications reported last year has been maintained and the income therefrom has now reached a record figure of over £400, reports the hon. librarian. This is mainly due to the continued increased demand for the “Beginners’ Handbook” and for the very promising start with the sale of the “Collection of Surprise Methods,” which became available early in the year.

The increase of postal sales during the year has naturally led to an increase in expenses, but this has been offset to a degree by the fact that there has been an increase in orders for larger quantities. It would be helpful if more could be done in this direction by Associations purchasing quantities of the more popular publications to sell to their members at their meetings, and so ease the burden of distribution.

We tender our thanks to the donors for the following additions to the library: “Bellringing in the Schools of Today” by Michael King; “Bells and their Use as a Means of Christian Education” by W. R. Denton; copies of “Spliced Triples” per Mr. J. Segar; copies of “Irish Bell News” per Mr. F. E. Dukes.

In conclusion I have to report the sad news that Mr. R. F. B. Speed intimates that he would like me to arrange for someone else to take over the sales section of the library. Due to increased business and family commitments and the continuing increase in sale of publications, Mr. Speed finds that he cannot spare the time demanded by the work involved. We shall be sorry to lose the valuable help Mr. and Mrs. Speed have given for the benefit of the Exercise during the past eight years and no words of mine can adequately express our thanks to them. We are indeed most grateful for the enormous amount of work they have done for us.

Mr. F. W. Perrens in moving the adoption of the report said he would like to emphasise the help given by the Association in purchasing quantities of publications for sale to their members.

The President: May I very warmly, in the name of all, underline the last paragraph of our very grateful thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Speed for their work in connection with the sale of publications.

Supporting the president, Mr. G. Dodds asked if some of the smaller publications which were out of print could be reprinted.

Mr. J. F. Smallwood asked, in regard to stocks purchased by the Association, were they on sale or return or was there payment in advance?

Mr. Perrens: I think I should mention cash. What I know of the finances of most Associations today, I am certain they could afford to take a reasonable number and pay for them.

Mr. H. L. Roper said he had had experience of hawking Central Council publications. Some did not go very well. Could he have an assurance that the librarian would take them back?

Mr. Perrens: We are only too willing to accommodate anyone who has a surplus that he cannot sell.

SALES AND STOCK OF PUBLICATIONS
for the year ended December 31st, 1965.
	Copies sold	Stock	Value at cost
Methods Sheets-			£	s.	d.
D.N.C.B.M.	22	714	8	18	6
Stedman	45	504	6	6	0
Preservation of Bells	173	156	8	9	0
Four-Way Minor Table	37	945	15	15	0
Handbell Ringing	240	763	62	15	9
Collection of Peals, Section III	22	100	2	10	0
Doubles Methods	168	1230	61	10	0
Model Rules	56	432	5	8	0
Village Bells	16	2		1	3
Card - “Care of Bells”	57	169	2	2	3
Plain Major Methods	5	-	-	-	-
“On Conducting”	208	797	47	6	5
Handbook	104	479	41	18	3
Electrical Switchgear Card	5	849	3	3	8
Grandsire Caters	120	880	28	8	4
Beginners’ Handbook	3051	1923	71	6	2
“Ringing for Service”	147	1988	54	9	2
Stedman Compositions	71	717	50	0	6
Minor Methods	249	961	161	3	4
False Course Heads	52	237	16	18	7
Recruiting Leaflet	520	1213	5	1	1
Prayer Sheet	174	2826	14	14	4
Surprise Methods	376	1124	97	3	7

			£755	9	2

Bellfounders will be Extremely Busy -

Foreshadows Towers and Belfries Committee

THE work of the Towers and Belfries Committee for 1965 again constitutes an all-time record. Advice on tower and bell restoration was given in a total of 118 churches, an increase of seven more than in 1964. Last year it was noted that the great increase in requests for advice was occasioned by the architects’ reports in connection with the second cycle of inspections carried out under the Quinquennial Inspection of Churches Measure, and this year’s work has increased for the same reason. On many occasions the convener has been hard pressed to deal with the day to day correspondence in connection with these requests and reports.

As in former years, this report is compiled from statistics sent to the convener by individual members; and of the 118 requests for advice 27 were dealt with by correspondence. Members of the committee visited 91 churches.

The churches where advice was sought may be analysed geographically thus: Bedfordshire 1, Berkshire 13, Buckinghamshire 11, Cambridgeshire 3, Cornwall 3, Derbyshire 2, Devonshire 13, Essex 2, Gloucestershire 2, Hampshire 1, Herefordshire 3, Hertfordshire 1, Kent 4, Lancashire 1, Lincolnshire 2, Middlesex 2, Norfolk 2, Northamptonshire 7, Oxfordshire 12, Shropshire 1, Somerset 15, Staffordshire 1, Surrey 4, Sussex 1, Warwickshire 2, Wiltshire 1, Worcestershire 1, Yorkshire 1.

Total for England 112, Australia 3, New Zealand 1, Southern Rhodesia 1, United States of America 1: 118.

It is impossible to comment in detail on to individual towers in a report such as this and it should be remembered that each full report on bells, gear, tower and acoustics normally takes from six to eight typed pages. An analysis of the reports submitted reveals the following:

Fifteen parishes sought advice on augmentation, an increase of three above those in the previous year.

The number of towers seeking advice on the recasting of bells decreased to 14 in 1965.

Sixty-one churches sought advice on rehanging or were advised by members of our committee to rehang completely their bells, an increase of eight above the previous year.

The number of churches seeking advice on repair or maintenance increased to 82. An increase in this section of our work is always a matter of satisfaction, for if more routine maintenance were done many rings of bells would not deteriorate so rapidly. These enquiries have trebled during the past three years.

Inquiries regarding tower oscillation and request for advice where extensive damage had been done to masonry increased to 42, 20 more than 1964, and requests for advice on sound control increased to 43.

Somerset again headed the list of inquiries, with Berkshire and Devonshire second: but if one classifies the work done under the heading of Dioceses, Oxford takes first place with 36 requests for advice on bell restoration.

The committee met to consider in further detail the proposed new book on bell towers, bell hanging and maintenance of bells and gear. It was resolved to recommend that two books be printed: the first to deal with bell towers and bell hanging, and a separate book on bell maintenance. The convener regrets he has been unable during the past few months to devote as much time to this as he hoped, owing chiefly to his wife’s serious illness, and to the tremendous volume of inquiries and correspondence regarding inspections and reports, 65 of which were dealt with by him. He has also given 23 lectures to members of diocesan, architectural and professional organisations, parochial church councils, youth organisations and in adult education colleges. It is evident that there is growing interest in all matters connected with bells and ringing, and our bellfounders and bellhangers will be extremely busy in the coming years.

FREDERICK SHARPE, F.S.A., F.I.O.B., Convener, Derwen, Launton, Bicester, Oxon.
B. AUSTIN, A.R.I.B.A., A. J. FROST, A.R.I.B.A., F. E. COLLINS, M.I.Inst.E., J. FREEMAN, H. J. SANGER, REV. J. G. M. SCOTT, M.A., B. D. THRELFALL, M.A., A.M.I.C.E., J. WORTH.

TOWERS AND BELFRIES COMMITTEE

Mr. F. Sharpe (life member) said the Committee was different from other committees in that its work was done by individuals which was afterwards analysed. The committee had been extremely active and he would like to give appreciation of his colleagues in the work they did. Mr. Barnett had pointed out they had run into some expense but that no committee had done more for less money than the Towers and Belfries Committee and that the expenditure referred to was for two years’ committee meetings. The committee recommended that instead of one they produce two books. They had a sum of £500, but as “The Restoration of Bells” was practically out of supply they should like it to contain a chapter from the main book.

Mr. J. Sanger (Bath and Wells) seconded and paid tribute to the tremendous amount of work Mr. Sharpe did for the committee. They had occasion to call him in for a difficult job in Somerset and they owed him a debt of gratitude.

Mr. Harold Rogers: I would like to endorse very wholeheartedly what Mr. Sanger has said. Most of you feel very distressed to hear that Mr. Sharpe’s wife is seriously ill. We all know how she supported him while he was in the chair. I propose that we send her a message of goodwill from the meeting. (hear, hear).

Mr. R. F. B. Speed said there was going to be a new book on the preservation and repair of bells. The present book, revised three years ago, was to be reprinted.

Mr. Sharpe: I think the committee will have to think of this in slightly different terms. It will be reprinted within two or three months.

The report was adopted and the present committee re-elected with the addition of Mr. Trevor Roderick, who was proposed by Mrs. D. King and seconded by Mr. F. E. Collins.

Biographies Committee Reports Many Deaths

DURING the 75 years of the Council’s existence there has been a total of 862 elected members, representing 83 different Associations, Guilds or Societies.

The following members and past members have died during the year: G. C. Woodley, Guild of Devonshire Ringers, 1932-1947 (attended four meeting); J. R. Newman, Worcester Association, 1909-1914 (four meetings); F. C. W. Knight, Royal Cumberland Youths, 1948-1950 (two meetings); G. H. Cross, St. Clement’s Youths, 1929-1934; Royal Cumberland Youths, 1935-1959 (13 meetings); Mrs. G. W. Fletcher, Ladies’ Guild, 1915-1952, life member 1953 (41 meetings); W. H. Southeard, Truro Guild, 1927-1932 (four meetings); E. C. Gobey , Midland Counties Association, 1912-1914, 1933-1935 (six meetings); J. T. Dyke, Bath and Wells Association, 1927-1953, honorary member 1954-1961 (18 meetings); C. Harrison, Midland Counties Association, 1945 (did not attend); T. Metcalfe, Cleveland and North Yorkshire Association, 1913-1936 one meeting); A. Paddon Smith, St. Martin’s Guild, Birmingham, 1921-1953 (15 meetings); P. Crook, Lancashire Association, 1927-1929, 1939-1950, 1957-1962 (12 meetings); S. H. Symonds, Suffolk Guild, 1929-1945 (three meetings).

Another past member whose death has not previously been reported was: Canon J. D. Pearson, Chester Diocesan Guild, 1946-1947, died 1962 (did not attend).

It would not be inappropriate to mention here that this year is the 50th anniversary of the death of Sir Arthur Percival Heywood, the founder and first President of this Council.

G. H. Cross was a competent ringer and conductor on tower- and handbells and exercised much influence in Norwich and London. He also composed many peals.

J. T. Dyke was a ringer of knowledge and character and through his example and standard of performance assisted many others to strive for perfection. He was elected a life member of the Council after serving on the Standing and “Ringing World” Committees and helping in the publication of the first “Beginners’ Handbook.”

Mrs. G. W. Fletcher was an outstanding ringer, conductor and administrator. Her ringing achievements, both on tower bells and handbells, are unique and at the age of 20 she formed the Ladies’ Guild. Her connection with the Council began in 1915, and in 1953 she was made a life member after serving for many years on the Records, Peals Collection and Editorial Committees. In addition, Mrs. Fletcher greatly assisted her husband in carrying out the duties of honorary secretary and treasurer of the Council over a period of 21 years.

A. Paddon Smith was a noted ringer in Birmingham. He had held offices of secretary and Master of the St. Martin’s Guild and, after years of public service, was, in 1951, elected Lord Mayor of Birmingham.

The committee have adopted a different method for the distribution of Biography sheets to new members. This method, we hope, will ensure an earlier return of the filled in sheets and so enable all biographical records to be kept more up to date. Also, a fresh approach will be made to recover some backlog but, in the meantime, the following are a few names, with Association and date of Council membership, about whom the committee has not got enough information to prepare a biographical sheet. Any assistance would be appreciated: H. J. Bradley, Royal Cumberland Youths, 1920; T. Collinson, Birmingham, 1898; G. Hitchman, Birmingham, 1897; F. T. Spence, Chester, 1900; W. Stainthorpe, Yorkshire, 1900; C. G. B. Wollaston, Devonshire, 1902.

T. J. LOCK (Convener), 57, Holloways Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Herts.
W. PARROT, W. H. VIGGERS, J. WILLIS.

The report was proposed by Mr. T. J. Lock (Middlesex Association) and seconded by Mr. W. Viggers (Guildford Guild). Mr. Viggers said apart from Mr. Hewitt all the sheets were up to date. He had been a member of the committee for 19 years and during that time things had been sorted out and the pattern of presentation changed. They were now concerned that the photographs should be up to date. That of Mrs. Fletcher was very old.

The hon. secretary said the names of Mr. P. Crook and Mr. S. H. Symonds should not appear in this report but in next year’s.

After the adoption of the report the committee was re-elected on the proposition of Mr. R. S. Anderson, seconded by Mr. W. E. Critchley.

Comprehensive Survey by Overseas Ringing Committee.

ONE of the things that started off the idea of the Overseas Report was the increase in the amount of travelling undertaken by ringers abroad on business, holiday or as emigrants; likewise Commonwealth and American friends visiting our shores. As well as this, a faint hope (as it was in 1959!) that one day perhaps another “Great Adventure” might take place either to Australasia or the Americas.

Nineteen-sixty-five saw such a tour and what excellent reading it made. Previous reports have dealt fully with bells, etc.; we feel these should now be well known, “Dove’s Guide” is now as up to date as present information will allow and we are happy to state many intending travellers abroad requiring details of towers contact us for the necessary addresses. We welcome this and have a quite thick file at the Exercise’s disposal.

We commence our report by once again conveying to ringers in Britain - greetings from fellow ringers around the world.

The highlight of course was the tremendously successful Great Adventure II led by Tom Lock towards the end of the year. It will go down, as did the 1934 visit, as one of the most memorable occasions in ringing history. Full details were published in “The Ringing World.”

Consequently A.N.Z.A.B. ringing received a great boost and this has been reflected in their later performances. Eighteen peals were rung in Australia in 1965 as follows: Minor, two to seven methods 5, Grandsire Triples 2, Bob Major 3, D.N.C.B. Major 1, Cambridge 3, Yorkshire 2, Lincolnshire 2, Plain Bob Royal 2 and Kent Maximus 1. An outstanding local effort was the peal of Lincolnshire Major conducted by W. D. Watson. There were 99 quarters in a variety of methods including several of Surprise, Sydney and Adelaide setting the pace.

Paid-up members total 119, and whether one visits Perth, Hobart or one of the larger cities there is increasing evidence of keenness in the art. The A.N.Z.A.B. Annual festival was held in Melbourne in June and this event does much to bring these far distant towers together. Restoration and new work continues. Apart from the very fine new ten at St. Andrew’s, Sydney, work is now in progress on the octave of St. Peter’s, Ballaarat. Bendigo and Melbourne Cathedral are now enjoying renovated rings, Parramatta are hoping to augment their six to eight, and several other towers are earmarked for attention.

All in all, a very successful year with results that do credit to the country. In April the A.N.Z.A.B. Central Council representative, P. M. J. Gray, “visited his constituents” and spent a thoroughly enjoyable tour of a good number of ringing centres. Finally a word about “Ringing Towers.” This really is a splendid publication and we recommend it to British ringers generally. The magazine needs support and at 5s. per annum it’s money for new ropes!

There are 14 members at Christchurch and eight at Hamilton. Last year two quarters and a peal of Triples were scored at Christchurch and the tourists rounded this off with a peal of Bob Royal.

Christchurch were also able to visit Hamilton in the North Island and record a quarter peal. Ringing also continues at Papanui.

Grahamstown.- The worn bearings of the tenor and the cracked gudgeon of the sixth have been repaired and Sunday afternoon ringing is maintained. Rope replacement is now imperative.

Woodstock.- A Doubles band exists although activities are much quieter than of recent years. Visitors included the Rev. and Mrs. Godley from Dorset.

Durban, St. Mary’s.- The bells are in good order and Cyril Chambers works hard to maintain ringing here. St. Paul’s, Durban, band has twelve members and activities here have attracted newspaper publicity. Practice night is Wednesday and the bells are rung every Sunday evening.

At Salisbury the Blagroves continue to maintain a high level! A peal of Bob Major was a very fine achievement and six quarters are also recorded. The band is fifteen strong and visitors are fairly frequent. It is hoped that Frank Blagrove will visit Bath at Whitsun.

Que Que, under Harry Earl, have a weekly practice and several beginners. These two towers (a ten and a four) form the Central African Provincial Guild, covering 485,000 square miles!

Kilifi.- Frank Blagrove during his visit to this distant tower found an all-African band ringing call changes from cards.

Groton.- A good year for the Groton schoolboys. Membership stands at 14 in the Guild taught by Russell Young and Warren Motley. Three quarters and several long touches of Stedman Triples are noted together with the Great Adventure peal of Double Norwich with Motley on the treble. Groton are hoping to visit Kent School during 1966 and England again in 1967.

Washington.- Fred Price’s mass tuition programme continued on in 1965 and we can only hope that ringing will be maintained at this glorious Cathedral. There is certainly abundant keenness here. The bells were rung for the visit. of H.R.H. Princess Margaret and on several other notable occasions.

Kent.- Kent School are progressing well, benefiting from the occasional visitor and looking forward to a ringers’ gathering with Groton.

Chicago.- Some interesting news from the Mitchell Tower on the Chicago University Campus. Mr. D. Morgan from Witney, Oxon, paid two visits there and some definite moves are being made to teach a band within the University. The bells are a fine Whitechapel ten and come under the care of Mr. D. A. Robins, the carillonneur. A course of Cambridge Surprise Royal was discovered in the belfry!

Vancouver.- There are 14 ringers at Holy Rosary Cathedral and these people have enjoyed several visitors this year. A trip was made to Mission City in April.

Victoria.- The Izard family maintain the ringing tradition at the Cathedral. Their band is 18 strong and there are always beginners on the go. Stedman and Grandsire Triples, Kent and Bob Major are regularly attempted. Practice night is Tuesday and ringing takes place every Sundry.

Mission City.- The Benedictines of Westminster Abbey under their Ringing Master, Father Dunstan Massey, O.S.B., have had a very good year. There are 20 ringers in the Monastery and high hopes of a quarter peal being recorded this year we hear.

Quebec.- A. J. M. Collins, in Ottawa, has gleaned some useful news from Holy Trinity Cathedral. David Bulleid is in charge here, and St. Matthew’s, Quebec, have been kept going as well. As Tony Collins says, “We now have proof that all the six towers in Canada are in working order.” (Intending tour organisers please note!) The bells were rung half-muffled for the Cathedral Churchill Memorial Service and by all accounts sounded very impressive.

Calgary.- Our circular to Calgary somehow went astray but the reports in “The Ringing World” give ample evidence that there’s plenty of enthusiasm here. Inter-province trips have helped Canadian ringing considerably.

Poona. All we are waiting for is for some understanding company to send a representative to India! The Cathedral of the Holy Name has a fine eight but all the news we have is of W. C. West’s visit there during the first world war.

This concludes our survey for 1965. Sincere thanks to all our faithful ambassadors in the Overseas “Ringing World.”

Mr. G. W. Pipe moved the adoption of the report. He gave a very hearty welcome home to Mr. Frank Blagrove. He was pleased to report that as a tribute to their Australian friends eight members of A.N.Z.A.B. had rung a peal of Crewkerne this Whitsun. He also congratulated Mr. Rick Dirksen of Washington Cathedral on ringing his first peal.

With the Council’s permission, Mr. F. T. Blagrove gave an interesting review of conditions in Africa. Starting at Capetown, he said there were eight bells at Woodstock and six of the ringers were from England. They were capable of ringing Triples and Major. At the Cathedral, Capetown, there was a ring of ten (tenor 24 cwt.) awaiting the erection of the tower. It was hoped the bells would be ringing by Christmas next year.

Some 500 or 600 miles along the coast at Grahamstown there was a ring of eight by Warner’s dated 1879. They were well-nigh unringable. Another 500 miles away, at Durban, there were two rings of bells supplied by Taylor’s. At St. Paul’s there was a ring of eight, where Cyril Chambers was in charge, and at St. Mary’s there was a ring of ten but not a change ringing band. The bells were all dedicated to war leaders and one to Edith Cavell.

Another 1,000 miles away was Salisbury Cathedral, where the bells were installed in 1960 and there was a 24 cwt. tenor. No English bell ringers lived in the town but there were two outside - one 15 miles away and the other 70. Generally speaking they managed to get up to Plain Bob Triples. At Que Que there was a ring of four. It would cost them £600 to augment to six. They had adopted the title of Rhodesian Guild. At Kilifi, East Africa, there was a ring of six.

The report was adopted and Messrs. G. W. Pipe and A. V. Sheppard were re-elected.

Mr. T. J. Lock, leader of Great Adventure II, said he had been asked to offer to the Council a gift from the St. Paul’s Cathedral Society, Melbourne, a finely-produced book about Australia entitled “Australia - Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow.” He expressed the hope that the Council would keep the book in its library.

There was an illuminated address which read: “Presented to the Central Council of Church Bell Ringers by St. Paul’s Society of Bell Ringers, Melbourne, Australia, as a token of our appreciation for the visit of a team of English bellringers during September, 1965, on the tour known as Great Adventure II. May the friendship and enthusiasm created by this visit endure, and may the future bring many more Great Adventures to us both.”

The president, in accepting the gift, said he was sure they would wish him to congratulate Mr. Lock and all concerned on the success of Great Adventure II. It was a very delightful gift and he hoped that their secretary would express their grateful thanks for that lovely gift and the great kindness that had been shown to their ringers in Australia.

Report of the Records Committee

TOWER BELLS
January
2	5040 Regina Bob Roy., Oxford D.G.
9	5152 Finedon S.M., Peterborough.
21	5120 Shepperton S.M., Middesex.
22	5120 Filton S.M., Gloucester and Bristol.
25	5024 Quantock S.M., Lincoln.
30	5120 Mauretania S.M., Gloucester and B.
February
6	5040 Ebury Court Bob Roy., Oxford D.G.
8	5088 Xingu S.M., Lincoln.
15	5120 Uffington S.M., Lincoln.
20	5040 Fulham S. Roy., Middlesex.
20	5024 Deddington S.M., Oxford D.G.
March
6	5056 Eccleston S.M., Kent.
23	5152 Griffin S.M., Gloucester and Bristol.
27	5024 Douai S.M., Oxford D.G.
April
18	5152 Debenham S.M., Suffolk.
22	5152 Ditcheat S.M., Middlesex.
May
15	5056 Chelsfield S.M., Oxford U.S.
20	5024 Uppingham S.M., Middlesex.
29	5040 Ashbourne Col. Bob Roy., Winchester and Portsmouth.
June
10	5024 Sprotborough S.M., Middlesex.
24	5024 Alford S.M., Middlesex.
26	5184 Kippen S.M., Oxford D.G.
July
4	5088 Chorley S.M., Lancashire.
8	5120 Wyrardisbury S.M., Middlesex.
10	5040 Primrose S. Roy., Chester.
10	5040 Upton Court Bob Roy., Oxford D.G.
10	5088 Henley S.M., Peterborough.
27	5056 Lusitania S.M., Midland Counties.
August
6	5120 Skelton S.M., Yorkshire.
September
10	5056 Finborough S.M., Suffolk.
12	5088 Highclere S.M., Winchester and P.
18	5280 Selwood S.M., Lancashire.
18	5088 Richmond Bob Maj. (first in the method on tower bells), Surrey.
18	5056 Hernhill Imp. Maj., Kent.
November
4	5120 Thurston S.M., Middlesex.
13	5024 Icknield Court Bob Maj., Oxford.
18	5088 Marsham S.M., Middlesex.
December
4	5024 Bloxham S.M., Oxford D.G.
12	5039 Winchester Bob Caters, Essex.
13	5152 Nantwich S.M., Lincoln.
16	5120 Brentham S.M., Middlesex.
23	5184 Kirkgate Bob Maj., Yorkshire.
30	5060 Hunslet Bob Cinques, Yorkshire.

The above is the report of the Record Committee, being the first peals in the method and progressive performances which have been published in “The Ringing World” of 1965.

SPLICED
Jan.	2	5024 10 Spliced S.M. (all the work), Kent.
	23	5040 42 Spliced S.Roy., Yorkshire.

PROGRESSIVE LENGTHS
May	15	16368	Cambridge Surprise Maximus, St. Martin’s.
June	3	5568	Londinium Surprise Maximus, St. Martin’s.
Dec.	18	17248	Yorkshire S.M., Lancashire.

HANDBELLS
Feb.	10	5280 6-Spliced Surprise Major (all the work), Hertford.
Aug.	20	5120 23-Spliced S.M., Middlesex.

J. R. MAYNE (Convener pro tem.), 170, Headstone Lane, Harrow, Middlesex.
F. T. BLAGROVE, L. K. MARSHALL.

Mr. F. T. Blagrove, in moving the adoption of the report, said Mrs. Marshall was not standing. The librarian had referred to the work of Mrs. Marshall and Mrs. Fletcher in looking after the papers of the committee. Mrs. Fletcher had suggested a binder and he moved that a binder be provided as a memorial to her.

The hon. secretary said the Standing Committee recommended that the report of the committee be adopted, that Messrs. F. T. Blagrove and C. A. Wratten be elected to the committee and that a binder should be provided as a memorial to Mrs. Fletcher. Also that the Council expresses its sincere thanks to Mr. John Mayne and Mrs. Marshall.- This was agreed to.

Mr. Beresford proposed that Dr. D. E. Sibson (Society of Royal Cumberland Youths) be elected to the committee and this was agreed to.

There were 15 nominations for the Standing Committee and the following 12 were elected: Mrs. Barnett, Miss M. R. Cross, Messrs. F. I. Hairs, W. B. Cartwright, W. G. Wilson, J. F. Smallwood, F. E. Dukes, P. A. Corby, J. Bray, R. F. B. Speed, W. F. Moreton and H. J. Sanger.

The president said that next year Whit Tuesday would be on May 16th and the Bank Holiday on Monday, 29th. Would it be the wish of the council to meet on May 30th? They would like to know the views of the secretary of the Southwell Diocesan Guild. (The meeting will be in Nottingham.)

Mr. W. L. Exton replied that ringing in the city of Nottingham would be restricted unless it was on a bank holiday.

Mr. R. S. Anderson moved that the meeting be held on Tuesday, May 30th, and this was agreed to by a substantial majority.

Two invitations were received for the 1968 meeting - from the Surrey Association for Croydon and the Worcestershire and Districts Association for Worcester. The Council, after listening to speeches from Messrs. W. Parrott (Surrey) and D. Beacham (Worcester) decided by a substantial majority to accept Worcester.

The Council then adjourned for the civic reception given by the Mayor and Mayoress of Bath. Their Worships were thanked by the president.

The thanks was expressed by warm applause. Mr. Lewis (Hereford Guild) asked if the Council would publish a Doubles book giving details of Plain methods and variations.

Mr. C. K. Lewis replied that whether the Council would spend money on a book which was contrary to its Decisions was doubtful; it would be extremely dangerous. He would like to discuss it with his committee before expressing an opinion.

The president expressed the thanks of the Council to many new friends. They were exceedingly grateful to the Mayor of Bath and the city of Bath for the use of that hall, and also to the Rt. Rev. E. J. Wilson, who celebrated Holy Communion and gave them such a happy welcome. They must also thank the Master (the Rev. H. F. Warren) for his welcome, and the Rector of Bath Abbey (Preb. G. Lester). They were also grateful to the Bath and Wells Association, particularly Mr. G. Salmon and Mr. Eric Naylor for all the local arrangements, and to clergy and steeplekeepers for the use of bells which were enormously appreciated.

Finally the president thanked the various retiring members for the valuable work they had done, and Mr. and Mrs. E. A. Barnett.

Mr. R. S. Anderson thanked Canon Thurlow for presiding, and the meeting closed at 6.35 p.m.

THE RECORDS COMMITTEE

APPENDIX B

The following will bring up to date the Central Council Collection of Surprise Methods as far as the end of the year 1965.