for some years we have had use of the two Dioceses’ communication channels via the Diocesan Communications Team. This is reviewed from time to time, usually by informal chats with the two Communication Managers separately. We have given items for circulation to all parishes, for the Diocesan websites and some Diocesan magazine publications. In addition, the Portsmouth Diocese has sought specific features from us and independently ‘harvested’ items from our website and that of the ‘Central Council’
discussions with both Dioceses and Cathedrals had begun regarding the potential displaying of our WW1 Centenary Commemoration Archive link on the Dioceses’ and Cathedrals’ websites. These discussions had stalled considerably because of the Covid outbreak and some changes of staff subsequently.
The Winchester Diocese had appointed Jemima Lewis as Head of Communications as her predecessor had moved away from the area.
I met with Jemima Lewis in Winchester on 17th May; it was an encouraging and helpful meeting. On the day, I was invited to give Jemima an overview of the Guild and its activities.
The main item brought away was the potential offer of the Winchester Diocese website being able to display a link to our website as a whole, not just the WW1 digital archive. Jemima and I agreed it could offer us an even greater opportunity to raise the profile of our Guild, including its Young Ringers, recruitment and the training of ringers of all ages, Bell Restoration support and the wider world of ringing. This proposed action is still to be confirmed by Winchester Diocese.
Jemima was mindful to liaise with Neil Pugmire, Director of Communications for the Portsmouth Diocese.
A summary of the meeting was given to the Principal Officers, Communications Committee Convenor and WebMaster recently.
General update of the Guild’s activities was shared with the members of the Senior Clergy of both Dioceses. This was by email, as usual, and a copy of the latest newsletter (Autumn edition) was included.
25th April 2023 Press Release highlighting The Coronation ringing issued to various media contacts, Senior Clergy of both Dioceses and local dignitaries, including The Lord Mayor of Portsmouth and The Mayor of Winchester.
As a result of the Coronation Press Release:
28th April 2023 Master Rachael was interviewed ‘live’ on Radio Solent
we had an enquiry from The Mayor of Winchester who wishes to attend a ringing event. (Correspondence ongoing)
the Portsmouth Diocese invited the Guild to send representatives to the Archdeacons Visitations to have an opportunity to chat to those attending and to set up a table display if desired. (Arrangements being made currently.)
The usual updating of the Guild s activities was advised to the members of the Senior Clergy of both Dioceses. This was by email as usual and I sent a copy of the latest newsletter (Spring edition).
Article and photos - “Au revoir to the Channel Islands District of the W & P” submitted to The Ringing World; piece scheduled to be published during the week of our 2023 A.G.M.
Viv Nobbs