Ringers from all parts of the guild’s area gathered at St. Michael’s, Southampton, for the 1971 striking competition in May.
Canon K. W. H. Felstead and the guild secretary (Mr. David Forder) adjudicated, whilst Ken Croft and Arthur Davis were in charge of the ringing arrangements
The performances of the six competing teams were varied and, as pointed out by the judges, there was a tendency in all cases to ring the tenor too closely at handstroke. Nevertheless there was some good ringing to be heard, Fawley team, which included two very young performers on the treble and second, setting a high standard with an opening touch of 240 Plain Bob Doubles.
A special welcome was accorded to ringers from All Saints’, Ryde, Isle of Wight, competing for the first time; they were the only team to turn the tenor in by ringing 240 Kent T.B. Minor, a tricky undertaking on strange bells much lighter than their own.
Tea was served by ladies in the church hall at Bitterne Park, after which the judges gave the results. It turned out to be a close thing between the first three teams - Highclere St. Michael winning the cup, followed by St. Mary’s, Eling (1970 holders) in second place and Fawley All Saints’ third. Other teams in addition to those already mentioned were from Ringwood and Alton.
The guild master (Mr. Roger R. Savory), after presenting the cup to Geoffrey Dodd (captain) and certificates to the teams placed first, second and third, thanked the judges for their work and the committee responsible for the arrangements. A hearty vote of thanks was passed to Maurice Butler and the ladies who prepared and arranged the tea.
A. V. D.
The Ringing World No. 3144, July 30, 1971, page 656