STRIKING COMPETITIONS COMMITTEE

This year the tower competitions were not only held on the same day, 15th May, but at the same tower, Goodworth Clatford.

This proved to be a lovely setting, and the blessing of some fine weather added to the enjoyment of the many ringers present. It was good so see so many people, and also that most of the “regular” teams had managed to enter the 8-bell event. I hope this trend will continue and maybe encourage some new entries for next year’s 6-bell event - hint hint!

Hursley took advantage of the “2 common ringers” rule to enter teams for both the competitions and very nearly won them both. The judges were our very own Steve Castle and Barry Fry.

6-bell results:

8-bell results:

The Inter-District 8-bell Competition was held on the morning of the AGM at Hawkley; the judges being Paul Flavell and Robin Neils from Kingston-upon-Thames. Afterwards the judges and several of the ringers enjoyed a splendid lunch (and a fine beer or several) at the Hawkley Inn.

Chris Kippin offered to help arrange a Guild band for the Essex Trophy. Unfortunately, most of last year’s band were unavailable and after contacting a large number of potential replacements it was clear that we were going to be unable to field a band this year. We hope to be there next year.

The 10-bell Competition at Hursley on 4th September was a close run thing between the “home” band and the C&S district. I would like to thank Mark Esbester for stepping in as a replacement judge when both the arranged judges had to cancel a few days before the event due to unforeseen circumstances.

Next year’s events will be a little different, with the 8-bell Inter-District being held during the Channel Islands festival, and the introduction of a junior inter-district competition, which, if successful, I would like to hold on a bi-annual basis, alternating with the 10-bell event.

Finally, I am happy to receive comments (good or bad) or assistance (good only please) regarding the competitions we hold. I rarely get direct feedback from Guild members and it would be good to know what people think about the types of competition, the number of events and the formats of the individual events. So, if you think we should try something different or are happy with the way things are - please speak up.

Andrew Byford