The year started with the number of ringers sadly depleted following the loss of our dear friend and former tower captain, Joe Cripps, last year, and several of our more experienced ringers moving away from the area.  However, in the hopes of recruiting some new ringers, we opened the tower to visitors in April.  We offered cream teas as well as the opportunity to ring on a mini-ring and the tower bells under supervision.  The afternoon was a great success; some 25 people of all ages attended, and as a result of this, and some advertising in local shops, 5 new ringers have now joined the band and the learners amongst them are progressing well under expert tuition.  We are once again normally able to provide at least 6 ringers on Sunday mornings.

 

Three members of the tower entered the Race For Life this year, in aid of Cancer Research UK.  Mary Cripps and Anne Bailey took part in separate events in memory of Mary’s late husband Joe, and in support of Barbara Crook – one of our ringers –and other friends who are bravely fighting this terrible disease or have been successfully treated.  Between them they raised over £1,000 for Cancer Research and thank everyone who supported them.  Barbara also took part herself, despite being unwell, bravely negotiating the 5km course in her wheelchair assisted by her daughter.  Very sadly Barbara died early this year.

 

During the next 12 months the bell ropes will need to be replaced and various activities have taken place to raise funds for this.  Barbara Crook undertook the LiDBA cycle ride in the summer and raised £285.  Additionally, LiDBA and Headley Lodge have given us generous donations.  Together with a legacy from Joe Cripps and contributions from the ringers, sufficient money has been raised and it will not be necessary to ask the PCC for assistance.

 

We would like to thank Toby Arkless for the time and patience he has given in teaching our new ringers, which has included many additional evenings spent in one-to-one tuition with “tied bells”, and the continuing guidance and encouragement of tower captain Kathy Arkless.  Kathy has recently been elected to the role of District Ringing Master for Alton & Petersfield District bellringers.  We congratulate her, and wish her well in this new role.

 

Peals were rung during the year as follows:

·         4 April – a farewell tribute to Simon Weeden, with thanks for his support and ministry, and wishing him and his family happiness in their new parish.

·         28 December – for Christmas.

 

Finally, we are still recruiting new members and would welcome any inquiries

 

 

Anne Bailey, Tower Secretary

Feb 11