The website has once again proved an important method of communication for the Association. There have been nearly four and a half thousand visitors over the year, viewing over twenty three thousand pages. Usage of Association email addresses is up 50% on last year – an average of 3 messages a day.
The two most popular areas of the website have received attention. The events page now updates dynamically and allows more detail to be added (if I receive the information!). If you have any ringing events in Derbyshire, then let me know and I'll add it to the list. The other popular area is the map and tower information. This is currently undergoing a makeover, which should appear soon.
During 2008, I've collected 95 photos of association towers to add to the website – more visits needed to take photos in 2009. I've also added the W. W. Worthington Memorial Trophy archives going back to 1978, this consists of the reports and 188 photos. Visit the website if you have not seen these archives before, I find it really interesting to go back to see the ringers of a previous generation! An innovative feature this year is that you can listen to the ringing from all the teams.
I have also added recordings of the winning Horsley Cup team, as well as the carillon of Derby Cathedral. The Darley Dale ringers have been featured in the Country Living magazine and the editor gave me permission to publish this article.
A special website has been set up to have information for the Central Council visit in May 2010. Currently containing basic information, the site address is here. More details will be added as arrangements are made.
If you have any suggestions for the website, let me know!