"Bill" Read, of Blackmoor, Hants, passed on early on February 20th after being in bed only one day. He was in his 86th year and had been in failing health for about a year, although this did not prevent him from attending the Alton and Petersfield District meetings in that time. His death took place at the Beauclerk Arms, Winchfield, the home of his son-in-law and daughter.
A native of Privett, he worked as a carpenter for a Greatham building firm for nearly 50 years. He married Miss Agnes Mary Mitchell, of Selborne, at Blackmoor Parish Church on June 1st, 1904, and they lived for many years at Blackmoor. Both he and his wife were ringers at the Parish Church, and Mr. Read's ringing career there was something over 50 years; he was captain of the ringers for 40 years until he lost his left leg in an accident in 1950. Mr. and Mrs. Read went to live at Winchfield about five years ago.
Bill Read had served as a District representative on the executive committee of the Winchester and Portsmouth Guild for many years until his retirement from Blackmoor tower. He had ringing at heart always and was a great friend to the young ringer.
He rang about six peals, all of Doubles, which he stood in to give someone their "first." One of these peals rung at Blackmoor was a birthday compliment to himself at the age of 75.
CHARLES E. BASSETT.
The Ringing World No. 2399, March 22nd, 1957, page 190