PRESIDENT’S PIECE

During the course of 2003, I’ve heard of one or two events that have been cancelled because it was expected that there was not going to be enough support for them to make them viable. On the other hand, there have been other events, which have taken place, where fewer people turned up than had been hoped for, but as far as I have been able to find out, all those who did go enjoyed the event. This, in itself, made those events worthwhile.

It is very disappointing for Committee members who have planned an event and made all the arrangements when that event does not receive much support. I am very aware that everyone has many claims on their time – families, work, house and garden, other interests – and that some ringers do not want to do any more than simply ring for Sunday services at their own church. After all, that is the main objective of church bell ringing. But ringing is also a very sociable activity. We all ring as part of a team and building up the team is a major part of the task of a tower captain. 

As an Association, we are very fortunate in that we have a number of very enthusiastic people who serve on the District Committees and they work hard to provide a great variety of different events, intended to cater for all tastes, throughout the year. Apart from the obvious chance to improve ringing standards at meetings and District practices, there is the opportunity to ring at other churches, taking time to see the church itself and the village or town. Other events in 2003 included the Annual Dinner, a quiz night, a barn dance, a car treasure hunt, quarter peal days, a car tour, various ringing courses, meals out followed by ringing, carol services and, in the summer, walks and picnics. You almost certainly won’t be able to support all those events, but please look through your District programme and see what you would like to join in with during 2004. Your District Committee will appreciate your support! You are also very welcome to attend events in Districts other than your own.

Pat Halls