President’s Piece, November 2023

The Guild Executive met on October 21st and highlighted below are some of the items discussed of interest to members:-

• Exciting News! The website is at present undergoing a transformation with the aim of becoming the main news hub for members. Ease of navigation will be paramount with links to other social media, such as Facebook. Look out for more details in the New Year and how you, the members, can contribute to its success.
• Some tweaking of the Guild Rules has been necessary and you should by now have received the final Draft for consideration via your Branch Secretary – please do send any comments in asap please as directed.
• The Guild Data Privacy Policy has been revised to bring it in line with current legislation. This will be distributed to all members with a covering letter shortly explaining the action all members need to take.
• Membermojo is being trialed in West Dorset and Marlborough Branches – for communications and subscriptions.
• Guild Safeguarding Policy is being updated and will appear on the website shortly.
• Don’t forget the LEBRF (Llewellyn Edwards Bell Restoration Fund) has grants available to help with any maintenance/restoration work on your bells.
• It is planned to run a Guild Training Day next year with something for all abilities.
• Another positive – Membership is up this year by 10% on last year.
• Congratulations to Janet Ranger – Dennis on winning the Volunteer of the Year Award – South West Region. Janet rings at Dorchester and is currently Chairman of the Dorchester Branch.