Members from all parts of the Guild's area were welcomed by the master (Mr. F. W. Rogers) who presided at the annual meeting held in Cathedral House, Portsmouth on July 4th. Silent tributes were paid to three members who had died - Miss Sparshott, Christchurch; Mr. H. Newnham, New Alresford; Mr. S. J. Sanders, Twyford.
The reports and accounts had been previously circulated but verbal reports were given by the Rev. K. W. H. Felstead (library) and Mr. C. H. Kippin (Central Council). The new rules to come into force next January were adopted, an amendment to increase members' subscriptions to 5/- being defeated.
Officers elected were: Master, Mr. F. W. Rogers; general secretary, Mr. R. Savory, 32 Thornbury Avenue, Southampton; treasurer, Miss M. Beamish; Central Council Representatives, Miss Beamish, Rev. K. W. H. Felstead, Messrs F. W. Rogers and R. A. Reed.
Whitchurch was selected for the next annual meeting to be held on the first Saturday in July.
A short service in the Cathedral, conducted by the Rev. E. Lowman followed. Afterwards at the buffet tea in the Cathedral House, the Master presented Mr. George Pullinger with a portable radio set and a cheque in appreciation of his services to the Guild which he joined in 1908. He is shortly leaving. Offices Mr. Pullinger has held have been peal recorder, assistant general secretary, general secretary (six years), master (six years), vice-president (since 1955), Central Council representative (since 1932), Southampton District Secretary (16 years). Taken by surprise Mr. Pullinger thanked the members for their gift and mentioned his early ringing days with Mr. George Williams who "either pushed you on or pushed you out".
The Ringing World No. 2519, July 24 to July 31, 1959, page 430