The October meeting took place in the Chapter House at Guildford Cathedral.
The Young ringers had met twice since the last meeting, both very successful practices at St Nicolas, Guildford and Merrow. Anthea Edwards is planning a practice every other month. In addition, the Surrey Young Ringers have invited us to join them, for their outing to Guildford in November.
An approach has been made from the Ringing World, for us to host the National Youth Contest in 2027, and after some discussion a decision was made to invite the RW to hold the competition in the Guildford area in July 2027. In fact, this will become the first event of our centenary year.
The Executive Committee reviewed the current financial position of both the General Fund, which is expected to end the year with a small surplus, and the Bell Restoration Fund.
From the Bell Restoration Fund, a grant to Epsom Common was agreed towards the cost of replacing the pulleys. A grant was also approved for Farnham from the Bridget Gordon Legacy in respect of their renovations. The Farnham PCC has invited the Guild to become a partner in the the restoration project, which was approved. A separate note will be issued to members in due course.
The Public Relations Officer reported some updating of the website, and continued use of the pull-up banners.
The yearly review of the Guild’s Safeguarding policy was undertaken, and amendments approved. A discussion regarding all Guild and District Officers who manage ringing activities, requiring DBS checks resulted in this requirement being confirmed in the policy.
A report was received following a meeting to discuss the requirement for a Guild Training Officer, a post which is currently vacant. It was agreed to write a role specification before taking this further.
A report was received on the recent Central Council Meeting, and a proposal to change the election of CC representatives from a 3 year term to a 1 year term was agreed, and will be proposed as a rule change at the next AGM.
A draft programme for the Guilds Centenary was discussed and updated – more later!
Stuart Aitken , Guild Master