THE DURHAM AND NEWCASTLE DIOCESAN ASSOCIATION OF CHURCH BELL RINGERS

THE D&N TIMES

ISSUE 1 JUNE 2013

IN MEMORIAM: RONALD R. WARFORD KAREN DICKINSON, ROKER

I first met Ron when I began ring- ing again at the end of 1999 and am INSIDE THIS ISSUE: honoured to share memories of him. I thank all the people I have been in con- IN MEMORIAM: 2 RONALD R. WARFORD tact with here in the North-East, in Yorkshire, around other parts of Eng- 136TH AGM OF THE 3 land and in the USA. Everyone has D&N their own memories of Ron, some of NEW HLM 4 which cannot be put into print, and all have spoken of him with great regard YOUR OWN MINI 5 RING and much love. We all remember his YOUR NEW 6 great enthusiasm for life and, fortu- OFFICERS nately for members of the D&N, amongst other things -ringing. ND NEWS 8 Ron was born in 1942 in Selby. His CD NEWS 10 father rang at Selby Abbey and in time

Ron followed him up the tower, SD NEWS 12 learned to ring and joined the York- Davies and Alan Grundy his fellow first peal- shire Association in 1957. His first peal ers, rang a peal of Plain Bob Royal at Selby ITTS North East 13 was of Plain Bob Minor at Hem- Abbey to celebrate this anniversary. th THE D&N 14 ingbrough on 11 April 1959. Fifty ...continued on page 2 CALENDAR 2013 years to the day, Ron, with Barbara

TH 136 D&N AGM  Stranton hosted the 136th AGM ANDREW FROST, HARTLEPOOL and, yes, the sky really was that blue!

Hartlepool is usually blessed Anthea Enzor organised inside the with capricious weather and church while the judge, Chris Enzor, th so it was on 27 April 2013. The secreted himself in his car complete morning dawned bright and chilly with charts, and a balaclava to dis- with a stiff breeze. By 9am there guise his identity, to mark anything were heavy sleet squalls. This did that was out of order. He was to th not bode well for the 136 AGM. have a busy morning. The four teams the new paint became scratched. The mini ring, which arrived in two trooped up to the ringing chamber At a little before 11 am, teams began cars, was manhandled up the steps of one at a time. to arrive at St Aidan’s to compete in Stranton church and erected under the 8 bell striking competition. ...continued on page 3 the watchful eye of Kris King who Southern District Ringing Master, was at pains to ensure that none of ISSUE 1 PAGE 2

IN MEMORIAM: RONALD R. WARFORD ...continued from page 1 for the election of many of the Cum- money for St. Matthew’s Newcastle. He rang many peals during his life, berlands in the North East, including Other people joined him for a couple mostly during his time in Leeds and several people he had taught himself. of hours at a time, but Ron kept go- Newcastle. He rang more than 1000 He was particularly pleased, for his ing for the whole 24 hours, stopping th peals for the D&N, encouraging many 60 birthday in 2002, to ring a Cum- only for a drink, something to eat and first pealers, and bringing many into berlands peal of Lincolnshire Surprise endless leg massages (which he rather regular peal ringing. All those of us Maximus at Stockton on Tees con- seemed to enjoy). ducted by Rachael Dyson. He rang who have rung with him have enjoyed Another occasion was the ‘Two Ca- the treble, was to remain quiet, and his loud ‘encouraging comments’: thedrals Hike’. Inspiration for this the rest of the band comprised ladies “Karen lead!!” he cried during a peal came when sitting in a pub with a whom he had proposed or seconded at Gosforth, looked across and fol- group of ringers who decided they for Cumberlands membership. lowed with “b%**/y h*%%, there would walk from Edinburgh Cathe- are two of you!”. He had placed Ka- Ron held office in many places. He dral to Newcastle Cathedral to raise ren Maughan and me next to each was ringing master of the Leeds and money for the South Shields bell other at the start of the peal! He also District Amalgamated Society and fund. After a couple more pints they called many quarters and was of great later the Leeds branch of the York- all decided that 110 miles was not a encouragement to many in the shire Association when they merged. big enough challenge and they would achievement of their ‘first’. He was tower captain of Gosforth for do it in 36 hours, which meant aver- 25 years. He was President of the aging 3 miles an hour. Only two peo- “B%**/Y H*%%, THERE D&N, initially between 1998 and ple managed to complete this chal- ARE TWO OF YOU!” 2001 and then again from 2007 to lenge with everyone else gradually RONALD R. WARFORD 2010 – the only person to be re- dropping out along the way. Needless Wherever he has lived he set about elected for a second term of office. to say one of the two who finished training many new recruits. Firstly in He was elected a life member of the the course was Ron, and Duncan has his time in Leeds, where he lived D&N at our AGM earlier this year. not been the same since! after getting married in 1967; next in He also served as a steward, Educa- “FOLLOW THROUGH GENTLY Otley, where he moved to in 1977; tion officer and district ringing mas- ON YOUR BACKSTROKE - LIKE then from 1985 in Newcastle as he ter. THE BLOUSE OF A FAIRY” came further north with his family He also served on Central Council RONALD R. WARFORD and settled in Gosforth. In each place from 1993 onwards and was on the his teaching was not restricted to his Education Committee between 1993 He spent his working life with the own tower, but reached far and wide and 2001, being its secretary for five Post Office/BT, but his communica- across associations - as far as the USA, of those years. He was also instru- tion was always clearer and timelier where he became a great friend of mental in inviting the Central Coun- than theirs. More than anything he many in Charleston, South Carolina. cil to Newcastle for its 2008 meeting, encouraged us all. He may have Many testify to the enduring mark he and organising the weekend. shouted and banged his head on the made on ringing there, from his first wall in frustration (which caused him three month visit in 1998 where 33 He also organised many outings, no doubt following his own advice in the to have to buy a new clock for people (his babies) could solo handle Gosforth ringing room), but it was before he left, to future visits with book he wrote for Central Council – ‘Organising an Outing’. So many of his passion for the fact that we could Yvonne to help. They learned many and should do better. He would tell new expressions (not always related us can tell stories of minibus adven- tures, youth hostel exploits, sweets, us how to improve and we did - not to ringing), were taught to “follow because of the shouting, but because through gently on your backstroke - sick bags and beer – nothing like a trip with Ron. he made us care about our ringing. like the blouse of a fairy” and local bar He also entertained us over many staff learned how to fill a glass He was also heavily involved in many pints post ringing - our Ron stories properly. Ten of ‘his babies’ rang a fund raising events. He did a great will be with us all for another lifetime quarter in his memory for evensong deal of walking and running at some at least. on May 5th. points in his life and also used these Ron was elected to the Cumberlands hobbies to aid ringing. On one occa- God bless you Ron. in 1971 and was himself responsible sion he did a sponsored 24hr run around Gateshead stadium to raise PAGE 3 THE D&N TIMES

136TH AGM OF THE D&N

admitted new members and passed rule changes, it only remained for  All 10 bells were rung at there to be a vote of thanks. The St. Oswalds. outgoing secretary, Kevin Maughan announced that Richard Turner would propose the vote – but where was Richard? As if by magic and, some suspect, after he had been waiting outside to make his entry, Richard appeared through the front door to considerable applause! His remarks were delivered in his usual entertaining manner.  The arts tower attracted interest from both ringers and local passers-by

...continued from page 1 Plate after the association rules were Brancepeth, Hexham, Ovingham consulted to ensure they were al- and a Presidents Eight each rang and lowed to win both. After the in turn they descended looking per- presentation, the Council Chairman plexed! St Aidans’ bells are not thanked the D&N for making Hartle- easy to ring and so it proved that pool its venue for the AGM and ex- morning. pressed his pleasure and that of many While Hartlepool’s ringers set to residents for the renewal of ringing preparing lunch in Stranton Church, in the town both on Sundays and for The new President, Kristopher King other members rang at St Oswald’s specific national and local events. with the outgoing President, Karen and the Art Gallery before heading Dickinson, who is now Secretary to Stranton to ring before the meal. “ST. AIDAN’S BELLS ARE NOT At precisely 1.30pm, the Chairman EASY TO RING AND SO IT AGM over, there was more time for of Hartlepool Borough Council, PROVED THAT MORNING.” open ringing at Stranton before Stephen Akers-Belcher, arrived to- evensong taken by the vicar of Stran- gether with his consort. Karen After a delicious lunch, the AGM ton, Rev Norman Shave. The new Dickinson and Barbara Busby, Cap- continued in its usual manner. president, Kris King, played the tain of Hartlepool Ringers took them There was lively discussion concern- organ and the congregation of to see the bells being rung and the ing the proposal to move the D&N around 30 members even managed Chairman was game enough to ‘have archive but finally the proposal to to chant the psalm. a go’. On returning to the body of locate to Woodhorn was carried. the church, Karen and the councillor Having elected a new committee, There were only a couple of things listened, as did we all, to Chris En- left to do - dismantle the mini ring zor’s judgely remarks about the (ensuring that the paint was still un- striking competition. His witty, scathed) and try to finish off the re- pithy and informed assessment of maining food. Both were managed in each team was met with amusement quick time! by all. In particular, he was full of praise for the President’s Eight who Altogether a tiring but memorably had managed to disqualify them- happy day for all Hartlepool Ringers selves by only ringing 128 changes of and, we hope, everybody else who Cambridge !! Hexham were de- was able to travel to the town on clared winners of both the Freda  Not Easy: The Bells in St. Aidan’s chal- that cold and blustery day in April. Burton Cup and The President’s lenge even the most experienced ringers! PAGE 4 THE D&N TIMES

NEW HONORARY LIFE MEMBERS FOR 2013

RONALD WARFORD and enthusiastically in the and district events, organ- WHAT IS GOSFORTH, NORTHERN DISTRICT HONOARY LIFE many official roles, includ- ised trips and events, and MEMBERSHIP? Ron received Honorary Life ing: President, Central has rung more than 1,000

Honorary Life Membership shortly before Council Representative, peals for the D&N. He was Membership may he died. Below was the pro- Steward, Education Officer Tower Captain at Gosforth be conferred on posal given at the 136th and Northern District Ring- for 20 years, and has taught Ringing Members who have AGM of the D&N by Karen ing Master, but that is just a many to ring both for his rendered Dickinson, outgoing D&N part of all he has given. He own and other towers. His meritorious President. brought the Central Council recent ill health has kept service to the Association. Ron has been an active and here in 2008 and has widely him from some events, but Honorary Life and positively promoted the his interest and support is Members retain all passionate supporter of the the privileges of Association throughout his Association in many other still very active. His service Ringing Members. membership. He has served ways. He has been a regular makes him worthy of Hon- Honorary Life supporter of all Association orary Life Membership. Members pay no the Association diligently subscriptions. for 10 years with distinction. She Master at Morpeth, and more re- BARBARA DAVIES has also been called upon to organ- cently she has established a month- UNATTACHED, NORTHERN DISTRICT ise special events for the Associa- ly 8 Bell Association practice in Barbara started to ring regularly in tion (such as the Millennium Chal- Newcastle. the D&N in 1988 and formally lenge and the Ringing World Chal- Barbara has been a great ambassa- joined as a member of Gosforth in lenge, both of which were great dor for both bell ringing and the 1989. During the following 25 successes). D&N and it is because of this that years she has been a most active Barbara is a true enthusiast of bell she was proposed for Honorary life member of the association, having ringing at all levels and built her membership by Kevin Maughan, attended almost every District reputation as a peal ringer across the outgoing D&N secretary. meeting in that period, competed 20 years when she completed the in almost every striking competi- significant milestone of ringing WHAT IS AN HONORARY LIFE MEMBER? tion and joined in almost every over 1,000 Association peals (and Association ringing trip that has being the first lady member of the Proposals for Honorary Life membership should in the been organised. D&N to do so). first instance be made to the Barbara has always been extremely However, she has also spent a lot Management Committee on willing to assist the Association in of her time assisting learners and an approved application form any way she can, typified by her and be supported by three or has willingly assisted towers in more Honorary Life or taking on the role of Mid-Week their time of need such as spending Ringing Members of the Guild Secretary and then serving 4 months as interregnum Ringing Association entitled to vote.

CHRISTOPHER M RICHARDSON than 660 peals for the D&N and SUNDERLAND MINSTER has provided a long and outstand- Chris has supported all the Associ- ing service to the D&N as Treasur- ation has done and stands for dur- er, C.C. Rep, Webmaster and ing his membership. He has been a District Ringing Master. As a stu- regular supporter of all association dent at Durham University he was events and events of all districts, an active member of DUSCR. and has been deputy ringing mas- Chris was proposed for Honorary ter of Sunderland Minster for Life Membership by Norman John-  Chris and Barbara receive their HLM many years. He has rung more son, Bell Maintenance Officer. at the 136th D&N AGM . VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1 PAGE 5

YOUR OWN MINI RING! RICHARD MAJOR

A mini ring of your were learnt from this event own? Well not including the facts that as- Constructing the Mini Ring: quite, but possibly sembly looks simple (but is Its as easy as... the next best thing. easy to get wrong), needed Shortly after the 2011 at least four people and took A.G.M. the D&N were of- about 1 hour with unskilled fered what was generally volunteers. known as The Black Bull In addition the frame com- Ring at Frosterley. The ponents were found to be owner had decided to up- quite bulky which limited grade and had a purchaser the type of vehicle that could lined up for the existing ring be used for transportation. but decided to give the D&N We have modified the frame first refusal so as to keep the to make transport and as- bells in the area. Thus it was sembly more convenient, that a hastily convened meet- including an electric hoist to 1... ing of officers took place on help raise and lower the bell the afternoon of Easter Sun- cradles. A gazebo has been day 2011. Although we purchased which provides provide training to existing would have liked to consult weather protection for the ringers since mini bell ring- widely this was not an option bells and Andreas ing is not quite the same as 2... and after much discussion Schröksnadel has manufac- conventional tower bell ring- the decision was taken to tured support points for this ing. purchase the ring for the before the frame assembly Association. With a wide was painted blue. This year the ring went to variety of views this was not South Shields for the an easy decision but eventu- We are investigating options Tower's Reps. meeting and ally we realised that funds for the final arrangement on remained there until our were available, the ring storage and would prefer a new President's wedding would be likely to appreciate location where the ring where the assembled multi- in value over time and the could be left on public dis- tude listened to some fantas- bells might be useful in a play when not out and tic ringing as the registers variety of settings which about. Suggestions from were signed. Then on to would support our charitable members for a suitable loca- Hartlepool for the A.G.M. aims. tion would be welcome. and thence to Roker for the 6 Bell Striking Competition. The bells and frame are now After the initial modifica- tions the ring has had outings The competition was not on 3! in D&N ownership, fully the mini ring so perhaps we insured and in temporary to Berwick and Hexham in 2012 which have helped with could introduce a new chal- storage. Very few members lenge! had had the opportunity to the learning process related ring these bells, let alone get to transportation and erec- The mini ring is also availa- involved with the transporta- tion. We shall be looking to ble for private hire and a tion and erection of the ring. deploy the ring at a number number of dates are in the As a first outing they were of events each year and this diary for this year. We have taken to the Northern Dis- will need teams of people to exciting times ahead with trict meeting at Whitley Bay be trained in transportation this new facility so please do in July 2011 where quite a and assembly (ideally at contact one of the officers if few ringers enjoyed the ex- least one team per district) you would like to get in- perience. Important lessons and we anticipate needing to volved.

Want to know more about the Mini Ring? Contact the Education Officer: [email protected] ISSUE 1 PAGE 6 YOUR NEW OFFICERS...

President “I was taught to ring by the Softley sisters at South Shields in 1988 and joined the D&N in 1989. The bells at Shields were condemned in 1989 so we Kristopher King spent 10 years in exile practicing at St Ignatius Sunderland, Heworth & Blaydon.”

Local ringing haunts? Currently all over! Favourite method and why? Bristol Royal - musical and interesting enough to keep you awake for 3 hours... Bob or single? Bob. Favourite bell in the D&N? Too many to choose from: The 4th at Brancepeth before the fire for pure entertainment value (it was a complete gamble whether it came down straight through the stair case - or not!) . The Tenor at St Oswald's Hartle- pool to learn how to pull! The Treble at Ovingham as it has my name on it :-) Favourite post-ringing tipple? Beer! Consett White Hot, Jarrow Rivet Catcher...and many more! When I’m not ringing I… work (not too much) and do a little organ playing where possible.

D&N DUTIES Bell Maintenance Attend D&N and district meetings as widely as possible to understand members needs. Officer Chair association General Meetings. Howard Smith Help determine and lead the ‘key priorities’ for the Association. Organise speakers for the association Annual Dinner. Give advice to local bell restoration projects. Perform inspections on Annual Report Secretary Mike Prentice Peal Secretary ringing and other bells. Jean Snook Appoint a deputy, as need- Receive details and money for association peals and ed to help or as a safety Produce and distribute the Annual measure, for tower visits. Report. check within the rules. Update the association peal books and card index. Report to association and Maintain the Association database. relevant district officers on Compile the Peal Report for the Annual Report. key activities.

“I came to ringing nearly 6 years ago purely by chance; I shared an office with someone who was staring at a piece of paper with numbers on it (Bristol Major). One visit to Durham Cathedral, mixed with Editorial and PR Secretary Rachael Houchin the ready enthusiasm of Brian Spurling, and I became a ringer shortly thereafter (though, rather shame- fully, I took a two year ringing sabbatical to finish my PhD and train as a teacher… but now I’m back!)”

Local ringing haunts? Mostly Durham Cathedral, but have been known to go here and there, when it is required of me. Favourite method and why? Hmmm… any method when rung well, but I am partial to a bit of Sted- man. Or Original Minor. Bob or single? Single. Favourite bell in the D&N? The treble at Wolsingham; I helped rehang it—whilst wearing a boiler suit. Favourite post-ringing tipple? Beer, Cider, Perry, Tea– it all depends on the preceding ringing. When I’m not ringing I… work and watch motorsport.

D&N DUTIES Produce ‘The D&N times’. Raise the profile of the Association and work with local towers and press to get exposure for key Association events. Update the publicity materials for the Association and coordinate the lending of them for local tower events. Link with Central council Public relations group ISSUE 1 PAGE 7 ...AND WHAT THEY DO FOR YOU!

General Secretary Karen Dickinson Fund Raising Coordinator Barbara Sutton Years in the D&N? Since 1999; I have been Central District Secretary and D&N President. Help determine medium term Local ringing haunts? Roker, Ponteland and then fund raising needs for the Association wherever I wander to! Pull together a plan for fundraising, linking Favourite method and why? Bristol and Double with local fundraisers. Norwich as I like the music. Bob or single? Don’t mind. Coordinate Association activities with local Favourite bell in the D&N? No preference, I just like ringing in a group that are sources of funding. striking well. Coordinate central Association fund raising Favourite post-ringing tipple? Beer or diet coke (depends on car). activities. When I’m not ringing I… read, if I can manage it. Develop contacts with national grant mak- ing bodies to help understand potential D&N DUTIES

sources of funding for major restoration Logistics for association General Meetings and Officers Meetings. projects. Agendas and minutes for association General Meetings and Officers Meetings Keep track of Stewards Receive and handle all general correspondence on behalf of the association. all association Rachel Gill & William Davidson Organise the association Annual Dinner. property and manage those which are loaned out. Lead association work on Child Protection.

Keep accounts for D&N General Fund and BRF and Periodically inspect the condition of the finalise with the auditor. association property, recommending Treasurer Matthew Durham Make the annual budget for the General Fund. remedial action to keep in good order. Report to the officers on the association funds and any potential shortfalls. Assess the insurance needs of the associ- ation, on an appropriate frequency, to Forecast/propose any increases needed to the association subscriptions. cover association property and other Complete annual return for the Charities Commission. broader aspects. Maintain database for Gift Aid and make annual claim.

Education Officer Years in the D&N? I’m pretty new to the D&N, only been resident for a Matthew Hetherington Central Council little under 2 years. I have, though, been a non-resident member since I Representatives rang a peal for the D&N in 2007.

Barbara Wheeler, Local ringing haunts? I ring at Newcastle Cathedral frequently and aim to get Howard Smith & Mat- a few more practices when time allows! thew Cracknell Favourite method and why? Norwich Minor (not sure why) and Bristol Royal Represent the association (very musical). Bob or single? through attendance at the I’ll have a double please if you’re buying. annual meetings of the Favourite bell in the D&N? 11th at Newcastle—everyone else moans about it Central Council. so it needs someone to give it good press! Favourite post-ringing tipple? Beer or a nice single malt. Use and develop own skills When I’m not ringing I… play my trumpet, plan a hill walking expedition or by participation in Central follow the fortunes of Cambridge United or Tottenham Hotspur. Council committees. D&N DUTIES Report to officers and members on the key deci- Run association training events . sions and activities of the Work with district officers and local towers to understand the type of events of most use for Central Council. the membership. Act as, or work in close coordination with, the Ringing Centre manager. PAGE 8 NEWSLETTER TITLE

GOINGS ON IN THE NORTHERN DISTRICT

On May 1st the Berwick ringers celebrated the "Riding of the Bounds" by ringing for an hour and a half, greeting the riders and walkers as they returned from their circuit of "Liberties of Berwick-upon-Tweed", the enclave north of the River Tweed to the England-Scotland Border. During the afternoon, leaflets were distributed among the spectators advertising a Tower Open Day on the following Saturday - May 4th.

Do you have a broken down The Tower Open Day proved extremely popular with the visitors thronging the local market, and the old clapper ‘hanging’ ringing chamber was filled with a constantly changing group of enthusiastic on-lookers. As an event, it around in dusty, cob-web was a great success, but sadly it failed to attract new recruits. Nevertheless, all the ringers who took covered, corners of ringing part had fun, and we would like to record special thanks to the Bamburgh ringers who came along to chambers?? support our effort. If so, I want them! Please contact CHRIST CHURCH, NORTH SHIELDS, CELEBRATS A SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY [email protected] MIKE SCOTT, NORTH SHIELDS The Black Bull The bells rang out on Friday Frosterley 22nd March to celebrate the 01388 527784 225th anniversary of the

arrival and ringing of the first Thursday 13th June, 7pm six bells in 1788. Christ

Our stone baked Pizza night Church ringers were joined will feature by Alan Barber and David Choral Singing Hamby from St Paul’s Whit- with ley Bay and rang a quarter "The Ricardo peal of Plain Bob Minor. Turnero Singers" The six bells were given by James Storey Esq., a ship Tuesday 18th June, 7pm owner who lived in Storey’s Hall on Tanners Bank, North An evening of Drama Shields. James was also a A three course supper. wealthy landowner owning  Left to right: Mike Scott, Darren Gardner, Alan most of Otterburn village Barber, David Hamby, John Seagrave, Mike Hewitt "Rallying Around" and surrounding estates in by Stewart Howson Northumberland. newly completed tower, the Newton Hall, Corbridge, “A rollicking new play… that The first ring of six bells was bells first rang out to cele- Northumberland and a new reveals itself slowly, just as a lost at sea on their journey brate the official birthday of tenor given by John Straker play should, it has the surface north in a sailing ship from Queen Charlotte, consort of of Tynemouth. At Christmas satisfaction of a younger and the foundry of W. & T. George III, on January 18th 1878 the steeple became the older man becoming reconciled Mears in London. The sec- 1788. first in the Northumberland as mates on an eventful journey ond ring, cast in 1787, ar- and Durham to have a ring of to Monte Carlo" In 1874 the ring was in- rived safely on a ship called 10 bells when two more creased to eight bells with "The Happy Return" owned were added by Maria Wheat- Tickets @£35 by Mr. Davis Hewson of the addition of a new treble Booking Essential ley in memory of her parents Whitburn. Placed in the given by Col. John Joicey of William and Margery. Friday 28th June, 8pm Do you need a helping hand publicising your Tower event? "Lander Mason" Do you need leaflets, posters or someone to A duo with unique sound that contact your local media on your behalf? combines both traditional and contemporary folk with jazz If so, contact your EDSEC at [email protected] and other styles. PAGE 9 NEWSLETTER TITLE

NORTHERN DISTRICT GOES NORTH CLIVE MOON, HEXHAM

As many of us headed north is fair to say that most of us from Newcastle on the 8.41 found the bells a bit of a train to Edinburgh we were challenge, and that some relieved and surprised to be enjoyed the view from the looking at the Northumber- roof across Edinburgh more land coast in bright sunshine than the bells. with clear blue skies. After A short walk past the tram the long cold winter, spring works and across Lothian seemed finally to have ar- Road took us to St Cuth- rived on April 13th, just in bert’s in its picturesque set-  The group make their way towards the Fettes bells. time for the Northern Dis- ting at the end of Princes trict Trip. Street Gardens with the cas- break in different ways, but Street, and the round church There were just over 40 of tle behind it. We couldn’t all most of us reassembled out- of St Andrew and St George, us altogether, including fit in the ringing chamber side Fettes College at 3pm with its beautiful and newly some non-ringers. Most of here, and a faulty Hastings before entering its long si- refurbished interior. Here us came from the Northern stay caused a bit of a delay, lent corridors with black the bells were also hung District, but we were joined but once we got started we polished floors, passing the above the stairs. Although by Karen Maughan and Jack enjoyed some good ringing, grand library and climbing a they have quite a long Hanlon from the Southern with the Yorkshire Surprise flight of stairs to find ropes draught the bells were easy District, and David Horne Royal going particularly hanging above the stair well. to ring and a lot of us really from Carlisle and Martin well. A wooden floor was folded enjoyed ringing here (I liked Snape from Wigton. The sun was still shining down to allow these very the Double Norwich), many There was plenty of room when our small group light bells (some found these for the first time. for us all in the impressive reached the Botanic Gardens a little tricky too!) to be We all enjoyed an excellent ringing chamber at St Mary’s for lunch after a brisk walk rung, blocking access to the day in Edinburgh. Many Cathedral, with its long across the city, and the rock stairs and preventing reluc- thanks to the Edinburgh draught, and spacious ringing garden seemed a particularly tant ringers from escaping. ringers who arranged for the chamber, with black casts of scenic place to eat our sand- Another long brisk walk bells to be available, to all bells standing outside the wiches. Everyone had dis- back across the city followed those who supported the trip large ringing circle. I think it persed to spend the lunch – for those of us who didn’t and to East Coast trains for catch the bus – to George running on time!

 Ringing at St. Mary’s: ‘You are following that bell there;  The beautiful interior of St. Andrew & St. George you can just see it on the horizon’

PAGE 11 THE D&N TIMES

ROKER TOWER OPEN DAY CHRISTINE RICHARDSON, ROKER

"We should have a Tower were cleaned, and we were Open Day," was how it began. "We haven't had ready to go! one for ages and I know lots of people would On the day, the weather like to get on the roof forecast was for rain, so the and take photos." Mini-Ring was set up in the Organising an Open Day is Hall rather than outside no easy matter, so to make it where we'd hoped to have it. slightly easier we chose to A display about bells and combine it with hosting the ringing was put up in the 6-bell Final on Saturday 11th Hall, and the refreshments May. The Association Mini- and tables & chairs were Ring was booked and the organised. By 11 a.m. there logistics of hosting the strik- was a queue at the tower ing contest around public door and the visitors were tours were debated. led up to the ringing room  Christine Richardson explains the finer points of where they were glad to change ringing whilst six volunteers demonstrate the In the end, we had the tower have a rest while Christine practice. open for tours at 11 a.m., gave them a very short safety 12.15 p.m. and 4.00 p.m., briefing and history of the with the striking contest in bells. Six ringers then graphs from the roof and to Hall was justified by the mid the gap (1.30 p.m. - 4.00 demonstrated Rounds on 6, spot local landmarks includ- -afternoon rain! p.m.). The local ringers and ing for some their own and the visitors were escort- The Anderson Rose Bowl many of the regular practice homes. ed to the bell chamber for an was contested for by 6 teams night visitors were prevailed explanation of the workings upon to provide cakes or On the way back down, the across the 3 Districts and it of a bell hung for change- visitors were invited to have was the Hexham method sandwich ingredients; volun- ringing. One bell was teers to man the kitchen, a go at backstrokes under ringing team who won with turned over for them to Christine's supervision. beautifully struck Cambridge hall, tower and mini-ring watch, then it was up to the were sought or allocated; the Many did, and it was such a Surprise Minor. Many thanks roof for what was for many hit that some families came to Mr. David Hull for travel- ringing room, bell chamber the highlight of the day - the walkway, roof and stairs up for a further go on one of ling from near York to judge opportunity to take photo- the later tours! The visitors the contest. Many thanks were encouraged to visit the also to all the ringers and church hall for refreshments, friends who helped on the and to have a go on the Mini- day and made it the success Ring. Again, many tried this that it was. and really enjoyed the expe- rience. Then a short break Something going and time for the next tour! on at your tower?

Over the three tower tours, Do you want to let people know what a around 50 visitors came up raving success your ringing event was, the tower and really enjoyed or do you want to advertise your seeing what goes on, how upcoming to the ringers of the D&N? bells are rung, and the spec- If so, why not drop an email to the Editorial tacular views from the roof. Secretary with pictures & words ? The weather held off just The D&N Times enough that roof access was  The view from the tower roof was spectacular, possible, though the decision [email protected] despite the weather. to put the Mini-Ring in the VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1 PAGE 12

GOINGS ON IN THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT

By Jack Hanlon going well. After 45 minutes it was time to ring down and On the morning of Saturday move onto the next tower. 18th May, ringers from all over the association braved The ringers then headed the floods, landslides and over to Barnard Castle. St traffic chaos to attend one of Mary’s (another one) is a big the wettest Southern District church in the heart of the events in a very long time – town just at the bottom of the Teesdale Tour. the Market Square. We found the eight bells here a The first tower was Gain- lot easier to ring, and we ford, where on arrival; ring- were able to have some very ers could be seen running well struck ringing. We rung ful storm that had plagued Mary’s (yes, another one) is from cars in a hopeless at- at Barnard Castle for about our morning had finally gone a very peculiar church and tempt to brave the deluge. St an hour and concluded the away. The pub chosen was dates back to the 8th Centu- Mary’s is over 800 years old, ringing with an excellent conveniently only a two mi- ry. The bells here are a 1925 and the bells are quite an old sounding bob course of Sted- nute walk away from the Taylor 8 and are arguably the ring too, being cast in 1845 man Triples. church. Many of us were finest sounding bells in the by Taylors. The bells are amazed that Richard Turner county. After an hour or so, quite loud and not particu- Lunch was calling, and as we has the ability to walk into we rung down and made our larly easy to ring but soon stepped out of the tower any pub and know the bar way outside to say our good- enough we had got the hang door, we stood in amaze- staff! Once refreshed and byes. of them and the ringing was ment as it seemed the dread- rested, we paid our bills for The group then went their the wonderful food and various ways. Some had drink and set off for the next short journeys back to Bar- church. nard Castle or Bishop Auck- St Cuthbert’s in Cotherstone land, and whilst they were at is another ‘interesting’ tow- home putting their feet up, er. Many people had not some ringers were still on rung there before, and out- their way back to Morpeth. side the tower, rumours The experience of the ring- were circulating about the ers covered a wide range, location of the clock case in this was reflected in the the ringing chamber. Once methods we rung. Rounds, we had managed to find the Call Changes, Plain Hunt, key for the tower door we Bob Doubles, Kent Minor, headed up the stairs to ring, Grandsire and Stedman Tri- which confirmed to those ples and Bob Major were DARLINGTON WALKING TOUR that had not rung there be- some of the methods rung on fore that the clock case was SATURDAY 21ST SEPTEMBER the day. What is great about in fact right in the middle of bell ringing is that there is the ringing chamber. The Ringers from all districts are invited to attend this Southern something for everyone, bells here sound nice but the District event on the 21st September. The details aren’t whether you are 10 years old location of the ropes makes fully confirmed yet but the day should consist of ringing at or 70 years old, been ringing things very awkward! Many the three towers in Darlington with lunch somewhere in for 30 days or 30 years, laughs were had and soon between. The towers are all in relatively close proximity to there is always something each other and two of them aren’t rung very often at all, so enough it was time to head new to learn and it is great it is a chance to ring on some different bells. Anybody to the last tower of the day. that everyone can join to- wanting further information to contact Jack Hanlon, Saving the best till last, we gether to create a very en- [email protected] drove on to Staindrop. St. joyable day. VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1 PAGE 13

ITTS IN THE NORTH EAST CLIVE MOON, HEXHAM 9am on Monday 6th May 2013: Hex- fixed clapper, practised some of the This was just the beginning of the pro- ham Abbey’s spacious ringing chamber teaching techniques. Some showed cess: good luck to all the student was gradually filled by 16 student ring- special ability at taking the role of teachers in finding and teaching their ing teachers, 5 mentors (ringers with “difficult” learners, with ropes thrown first new ringer. Many thanks to Kris significant experience of teaching peo- wildly, while student teachers strug- King and Duncan Walker for making ple to ring), 1 observer and 1 tutor, gled to think of effective instructions. the course happen, and to Heather many carrying equipment & refresh- Peachey for being an excellent tutor. Most of us had not experienced a ring- ments for the Integrated Teacher ing teaching course before, and if any Training Scheme (ITTS) course that ITTS: Hard at work, being ‘difficult’ were sceptical beforehand, I think all was about to begin. Heather Peachey, were impressed with the quality of the the tutor, had travelled up from Bar- course. Not since the augmentation row on Humber, and everyone else work in 2000 has the Abbey’s ringing had come from towers across the D&N chamber seen so much activity and the Carlisle Guild. This was the throughout a whole day (we started at first ITTS course to be held in the 9 and finished after 5, with a break for North East. lunch in Wetherspoons) without the The Association of Ringing Teachers sound of a bell being heard. I am sure (ART), initiated by the Central Coun- all will have learnt something, both cil, aims to raise the standard of ring- student teachers and mentors, and not ITTS: Hard at work, soaking up ing teaching by workshops such as this, just from the course material, but also beer and sunshine. followed by practical teaching over- from the many discussions that went seen by a mentor. The course leads to on about different ways of doing accreditation of student teachers and things. It had been am unusually sunny mentors. The excellent course materi- bank holiday Monday which we had al was ably presented by Heather, with spent indoors, so we were pleased to theory sessions interspersed with prac- adjourn to the garden of the Rat just tical sessions, when seven groups of outside Hexham to enjoy a pint or two three, each working on a bell with a in the late afternoon sun.

N D A B R

YOUNG RINGERS EVENT

Calling all young bell ringers of the D&N! You are warmly invited to attend an afternoon of FUN on the 20th July. We will meet to ring at Houghton-le-Spring at 2pm and at 4pm will go to the bowling alley at Washington for a little light competition and some food. Could your district be the bowling champions?! Both young ringers in our association, and more experi- enced helpers, are invited to attend.

So we know an accurate amount of numbers for ringing and for booking the bowling (and for any enquiries) , please RSVP to Jack Hanlon, [email protected]

Hope to see you there! 2013 D&N Calendar (Further details can be found at the Association Webpages) Month Date Event Contact Details April 27th Annual General Meeting

THE DURHAM AND NEWCASTLE May 4th Northern District Meeting, Fen- DIOCESAN ASSOCIATION OF ham CHURCH BELL RINGERS 6th ITT, Hexham

T D&N T 11th 6 Bell Striking Competition & HE IMES Open Morning, Roker

13th Northern District 10 Bell Prac- tice, Gosforth W WW. DANDN. ORG 18th Central District Meeting, Consett

Southern District Meet- ing ,various COMMENTS, June 1st Northern District Meeting, Helen Mayfield QUESTIONS OR NEWS? Morpeth and Cramlington [email protected]

Contact the Editorial Secretary, 15th Central District Meeting and Car Robert Criddle Treasure Hunt, Easington [email protected] Rachael Houchin: 22nd Southern District ringing trip Jack Hanlon E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] July 6th Northern District Meeting, Helen Mayfield Bamburgh and Embleton [email protected]

13th Ringing Ramble Karen Dickinson [email protected] SOMETHING FISHY BEING RUNG… 20th Southern District Young Ringers Jack Hanlon We all have different ways of getting to grips Day [email protected] with methods; the photograph below displays one such example. September 7th Northern District Meeting, Helen Mayfield Can you: Gosforth [email protected]

A. Name the method 21st Central District Meeting, Whick- Robert Criddle B. Name the two species of fish represented. ham [email protected] 28th Southern District Meeting, Dar- Jack Hanlon Answers and further method Aide Memoire lington walking tour [email protected] examples to [email protected] October 5th Northern District Meeting, Roth- Helen Mayfield bury [email protected] 12th Annual Dinner, Durham Karen Dickinson [email protected] 19th Central District Meeting, Bran- Robert Criddle cepeth [email protected] tbc Northern District 12 Bell Practice Alyson Kerr [email protected] 26th Southern District Handbell Prac- Anthea Enzor tice [email protected]

November 2nd Northern District AGM, Hexham Helen Mayfield [email protected] 16th Central District AGM, Ryton Robert Criddle [email protected] 23rd Southern District AGM, Stockton Jack Hanlon [email protected]

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