Foreword by the Bishop of Derby

The Right Reverend Jonathan S Bailey

I am pleased once again to have this opportunity to offer my appreciation to all in the world of church bell ringing, and the Diocesan Association in particular. The establishment of the ringing training centre at Eckington was a significant achievement in 2003, and a worthy ongoing memorial to the life and work of Gordon Halls. The open day last June, likewise, was a successful occasion. Thanks are due to all who continue to ring Sunday by Sunday, and special congratulations to those who have been able to encourage new recruits to take up this worthwhile skill.

There is a fear that future recruitment may be hampered in the course of applying the latest House of Bishop’s child protection policy, ‘Protecting All God’s Children’. At this stage the policy has been applied to clergy, licensed readers and those working with children and young people. Copies of the diocesan child protection policy are in the possession of each parish’s child protection officer and the clergy should Tower Captains and others wish to familiarise themselves with the latest approach.

With my continuing thanks,