July 1972

Those who live within the sound of our bells will know that, whenever the occasion demands, suitable peals can be heard. On the death of the Duke of Windsor, the bells were muffled for the occasion and skilfully used by the ringers. In their little room up in the tower, our ringers are heard rather than seen - but many are very appreciative of their difficult art which is employed in the service of the Creator.

Last month there was a note in this magazine which appealed for volunteers to come forward so as to ensure that we are supplied with ringers in the future. Mr. Henry Milward, who inserted that note, is himself being removed from the district for a time in connection with the demands of his work and study. Having undertaken much initiative and leadership in connection with the demands of the tower, Henry will be missed. But that is only the start of a story which could well affect the ringing of our bells.

Mr. Brian who, having settled down with us not so long ago, had been a most welcome ringer in our Tower, especially since he brought with him the gift of his two sons. But he is being transferred to Nottingham in the near future - which means a further loss.

Christopher Hims has for some time been away from home studying for a degree and the matrimonial plans of Miss V. Virginia Catley may well soon take her from Church and Tower.

However, we shall have a number of competent and conscientious ringers left; but quite obviously there is a need for their numbers to be supplemented to ensure continuity; so one would stress the appeal made by Mr. E. Milward in last month's magazine. If there are ringers in the neighbourhood of whose existence we have been unaware, or young people (boys or girls) who would like to be taught to ring, they will be enthusiastically received in the Tower. Mr. John Davies, Mrs. H.Kent, Mr. E. Mason or any other of our ringers will be glad to supply details to anyone who may be interested.

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