As we ease our way into Autumn, it’s hard not to look back on the extraordinary summer we’ve just had. With record-breaking temperatures, widespread heatwaves, and four consecutive months over 35°C, it’s been unlike anything we’ve known before. Many of us have felt the impact in our ringing — fewer peals and quarter peals, early retreats to the pub after practice, or even cancelled sessions when the ringing chamber became too warm to be comfortable.
But the heat hasn’t only affected us. It’s had an impact on the bells themselves. Long spells of hot, dry weather can loosen nuts and bolts in the belfry, not to mention what it has done to rope lengths! If you haven’t already, do take some time to read the article on the Guild website: Urgent Advice for Steeplekeepers – Belfry Maintenance and the Hot Weather, written by David Godwin, SDGR Bell Inspector.
Earlier in August, I was able to join the Mere Branch for their social afternoon at St James, Shaftesbury — their annual gathering for new learners. It was wonderful to see so many enthusiastic recruits at all stages of learning, each keen to try out bells beyond their home tower. Even those still at backstroke only were encouraged and supported to have a go on something new. Over tea, learners shared stories and experiences, and the whole afternoon had a lovely, welcoming feel.
I also had a good time at the recent LEBRF Open Day in the Devizes Branch. It was very well attended and clearly enjoyed by everyone who came. I met plenty of “Tower Grabbers” who had travelled from far and wide to ring in North Wiltshire, along with many familiar Guild faces. On yet another hot day, the refreshments offered at some towers were very gratefully received. As I wasn’t tower grabbing myself, I had the chance to chat with members and visitors — a real pleasure. Huge congratulations to Anne Willis and the Devizes Branch for all their hard work. Thanks to their efforts, almost £1,800 has been raised so far for the LEBRF.
For some of our younger ringers, September brings big changes — new schools, new colleges, new jobs, or even the start of university life. If you’re one of those moving on, I wish you every success as you take your next steps. Do try and keep the bellringing going.
Although November feels a long way off, it’s not too early to start thinking about Guild Quarter Peal Week, running from Saturday 31 October to Sunday 8 November. If you’re beginning to explore method ringing, a quarter peal is a brilliant way to build confidence and consolidate your learning. If you’d like to ring one, speak to your Tower Captain or Branch Ringing Master — they’ll be happy to help organise it. Last year we achieved 57 successful quarter peals. Let’s see if we can beat that this time. Perhaps you’re ready for your first quarter peal, or even your first attempt at conducting — if so, give it a go.
So, as summer gently gives way to Autumn, I hope you enjoy plenty of ringing along the way. And please do keep sending in your stories — and photos — of your ringing adventures to email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Pat Davidson
Guild President
