The Guild’s AGM was held at Chiddingfold on Saturday 15th March, following the 6-bell striking competition at Dunsfold (reported below).
At the service prior to the AGM, the Rector, the Rev Sarah Brough, gave an interesting and amusing address on the relationship between ringers and clergy, based on the diaries of a late 19th century parson. It would seem that nothing has changed. The local ringers laid on a magnificent tea, and everyone was well-fed, even though a large number of those attending hadn’t announced their intention to have tea. The room was a little crowded, but that added to the friendly atmosphere. Our hearty thanks are given to the Rector, the Chiddingfold ringers, their helpers and all who contributed to the occasion.
The AGM, chaired by Mike Bale, was uncontentious. The only change of officers was Margaret Bale becoming Guild Secretary. The highlight of the meeting was the announcement of the ‘Bridget Gordon Bequest’ and a competition for projects to share in the large sum available for Bell Restoration. Towers and Districts need to put on their thinking caps quickly, as they only have until June to send in their ideas. The details will be published soon.