The D&N Times

Issue 2 June 2018

THE PUBLICATION OF THE DURHAM AND NEWCASTLE DIOCESAN ASSOCIATION OF CHURCH BELL RINGERS

From the editor by Andrew Frost

Well 2018 is over half way over. I hope that many of you have been enjoying your Special points of interest: ringing this year and will continue to do so. My exploits were cut short in January  Meet the new General Secretary when I tore a tendon in my left shoulder while ringing on a Sunday morning. Major  Ringing Ramble 2018 rotator cuff surgery ensued in April and I hope to be back on light bells in October.  Remembering Votes for Women  The Beast from the East !! But, I’m pleased to say that it hasn’t stopped me from producing the second edition of  Remember the Dam Busters ? The D&N Times for 2018. Many thanks to those of you who have submitted articles for this edition. Please look out for something to photograph and to write about in the coming months. Are you having a Inside this issue: tower BBQ or summer outing to interesting towers ? You don’t have to write a lot Gift Aid 1 about the subject. Just think how it will The President’s Musings 2 entertain and inform other D&N members. Ringing Ramble 2018 3 D&N AGM 2018 4 Please let me have articles/images by email Dam Busters Raid Remembered 4 in time for me to produce the next edition in January 2019. Our new General Secreatry 5 Remembering Votes for Women 6 Gift aid declarations The Beast from the East 10 by Anthea Enzor (D&N Treasurer) Northern District in Scotland 12 Many thanks to all those ringers who have completed GOGMAGOG 13 Gift aid forms recently. At current rates of tax (20% Six Bell Striking Competition 17 basic rate) the Association can reclaim 25p from Her Janet Woods Remembered 18 Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) for every £1 Town Moor Triples Practice 19 paid so I will be able to reclaim an additional £35 from Northern District Quiz Night 19 the tax man for last year, this year and each year from Monument on Isle of Lewis 20 now on. Central District Goings On 21 All tax paying members are encouraged to make a Gift Eight Bell Striking Competition 22 Aid Declaration to cover any payments made to the As- Southern District Goings On 23 sociation, so if you have not yet completed a form you Ringing to Remember Diary 25 can find one at the back of this D and N Times or on the 2018 D and N website. You can either scan it and send it to Ringing to Remember Sep 17 26 me electronically at [email protected] or post it to to March 18 me at The Granary, 3 High Carlbury, Piercebridge, The D&N Diary for the rest of 39 Darlington, DL2 3TT. Alternatively you can ring me 2018 and I will complete a form on your behalf, as I don’t Gift Aid Application Form 40 actually need you to sign it.

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THE PRESIDENT’S MUSINGS…. by Chris Enzor

Well it’s now June, and sum- did not see a need to continue mer is finally getting going to publish them. The move to (last time I mentioned the the new subscriptions system weather I regretted it!). We will also mean that data is are fresh from a hugely enjoy- more securely held, and will able ringing day in Edinburgh, give you control over the ac- organised by Karen McCleave curacy of the (very limited) (Darlington). What she did information the D&N holds. not know was the Northern Since I last wrote, we held our District had by coincidence AGM at Benfieldside, includ- organised a trip to the same ing a rare chance to ring at city in the same day! Sadly, Blackhill. The Benfieldside whilst in Edinburgh, the ringers really pulled out all Treasurer (aka Anthea Enzor) the stops in making sure eve- spotted this sign, and given rything went smoothly, and a that I used to be a prosecutor, superb tea was enjoyed by all. she thought it would make a good picture. Since the last edition of the D&N Times was published, On to more serious things. we found that Norman John- First of all, I want to say a son had made a sizeable be- huge thank you to Karen quest to the bell restoration Dickinson, who has passed on fund. The money will be put the General Secretary baton to to good use, of course, and Jo Ayre. Karen has done a there are several large projects sterling job as secretary – of going on at the moment, course she had been president mainly as a result of the hard before that. I am very grateful work and vision of Jim Crow- to Karen, and I am sure I ther. As I mentioned when I speak on behalf of all of the last wrote, I would like to see D&N in thanking her for her one of the lasting legacies of enormous contribution. I am Norman to be an increase in also very grateful to Jo, who the amount coming into the agreed to take the role on. BRF, so that the committee Organisations such as ours do can support more projects, or not function without people give more to projects which being willing to take on these apply for grants. My plea for important roles. members to set up a small As always, we lives in times of standing order, eg £5 or £10 a change – isn’t there a proverb month has resulted in a small ‘May you live in interesting number of people contribut- times’? The new General Data ing, and it would be great to Protection Regulations mean see a lot more. So please con- that we need to be even more sider becoming one of the particular over how we handle regular donors; lots of people data. We have already taken giving small amounts could some steps here, and you will make a really big difference to have noticed the removal of what we can do to keep bells most addresses from the an- ringing in the North East. nual report. The committee

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THE RINGING RAMBLE 21 July 2018 by Alan Barber

For this year’s Ramble we will be returning to Hartlepool. This will give people the opportunity to ring on a variety of bells with one almost unique ring of 6 in the Art Gallery located in the former Christ Church, two rings of 8 and one ring of 10. It will also give people the chance to enjoy the vast improvement at St Oswald’s following the work done in 2016. Because the towers are relatively close together the distance to be walked will be somewhat less than 4 miles so will be more of a leisurely walk rather than an out and out ramble. As a result it may appeal to the less experienced walk- ers. However, as always, those who wish to drive from tower to tower will be welcome. The programme for the day will be:

From To Tower Bel Weight ls 10.30 am 11.30 am All Saints, Stranton 8 12-03-04 11.45 am 12.45 pm St Aidan 8 14-0-7 2.30 pm 3.30 pm St Oswald 10 21-0-12 4.00 pm 4.45 pm Art Gallery 6 9-02-24

For those who wish to travel by train one can catch the 09.41 from Newcastle Central which is scheduled to arrive in Hartlepool at 10.24. Alternatively if driving one can use the car park at Tescos which is close to Stranton Church and where there are no time limitations. I look forward to seeing many of you on the day and if you have any queries relating to the date then please contact me. Alan Barber Whitley Bay 07887 912012 or [email protected]

Hartlepool Art Gallery (ex Christ Church)

St Aidans St Oswalds All Saints, Stranton

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D&n AGm 2018 by Karen Dickinson

This year’s AGM was held in had all been made very wel- General Secretary and Helen members, it really is worth- the very welcoming church come by the ringers of the Scott is fund raising coordi- while. hall at Benfieldside on April Central District in the ring- nator. All other members 14th with tea and coffee and ing at Consett and Blackhill. were unanimously re- After the meeting we were lovely pickings freely avail- We must give thanks to Kris elected, and all were thanked all able to indulge in the able before the meeting. King for his “necessary sort- for their work on behalf of sumptuous tea provided by Plus, the glorious smells ing” at the latter. The the Association. the Ringers of Benfieldside, emanating from the kitchen weather was mostly kind to and long and good fellowship helped ensure the meeting us, and there was much so- I was presented with a lovely took place around the tables. progressed quickly under the cialising as well as ringing. It bunch of flowers for my able chair of our President was so good to see our mem- years on the committee, The day then finished with Chris Enzor. He began by bers out and about. thank you. I have served in ringing at Benfieldside. commenting on the fascinat- four different roles and it has ing year it had been in the The meeting soon started and been a really interesting and If you are free for the AGM Association, with a huge did indeed progress swiftly, fulfilling time. Think care- or the district meetings and range of activities and all to and the minutes have been fully about if you could serve practices during the year, be read in the hot off the sent round to towers. It is in one of the roles at some please go along. It is very press new Annual Report. worth noting there were two point, perhaps have a chat enjoyable and a great way to changes to the committee for with one of the committee get to know more of your Earlier in the afternoon we the next year. Jo Ayre is now fellow members.

The dam busters raid remembered by Alan Barber

On the evening of 16 May to give a significant morale and into the early hours of 17 boost to the British people. May 1943 Wing Commander Additionally it meant that Guy Gibson led 617 Squad- Germany had to divert re- ron of the Royal Air Force on sources to repair the damage an audacious plan to destroy which could have been used dams in the Ruhr Valley, the elsewhere. industrial heartland of Ger- On the evening of Thursday many. The three main tar- 17 May the Whitley Bay ring- gets were the Mohne, Eder ers rang the bells of St Paul’s and Sorpe dams. In all 19 Church to mark the 75th anni- aircraft took part in the at- versary of the raid. The tack. Sadly 8 of the planes tenor was tolled 53 times for never returned with the loss those who gave their lives. of 53 lives whilst 3 partici- Prior to ringing a minutes pants became prisoners of silence was observed in their Standing (left to right); Alan Barber, Tom Ramsey, Iain Hood, memory. The ringing gave Mark Errington, Ann Lee, David Hamby war. Ann, our newest recruit, the Seated (left to right): Alan Duffy, Fiona Ramsey, Marie Dixon The actual impact on the raid opportunity to ring for a spe- on industrial production was cial occasion for the first limited as within six months time. the damage caused by the raid had been repaired. However what it did do was

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We have a New general Secretary by Jo Ayre

half marathons such as the Great North Run, although I’m no Mo Farah. It’s safe to say my hob- bies keep me busy. As I understand it, my main duties are to keep people informed via the district secretaries, and to organise the D&N dinner. Ok, so there’s a bit more to it than that, so I will be making an appear- ance at some of the other district meetings during the course of the year, to get to know as many of you as I can. It would be silly for me not to use this opportunity to plug the D&N dinner, which is happening on Saturday 20th October. This annual event is not Since the AGM, I have met up with Karen and be- only a brilliant chance to meet other ringers out- gan to get my head around the aspects of role I side of a tower and get dressed up, but the funds have taken on. raised go to our BRF, which assists new projects and maintenance of current bells. Not been be- In the midst of it all, I thought it might be an idea fore? Why not make this year the year of change, to introduce myself. And what better way than and come along? I promise you don’t have to through the D&N Times! So, hello, my name is dance if you don’t want to, but it is a great evening Joanne (Jo) Ayre, and I’ve been ringing for more for everyone. Even non-ringing partners and years than I would like to admit. My photo was friends are allowed to come along! Please see the taken on a ringing trip to Norfolk this year, out- poster. side of a pub (which, of course, goes hand in hand with ringing). I am also the Ringing Master for the It goes without saying that I have stepped into the role of General Secretary with little experience Northern District, so some of you may have seen compared to the preceding Hon General Secre- me at Northern District meetings. I like ringing tary. Karen has made this transition as easy as pos- quarters and have rung some peals. I also enjoy sible for me, and left me with extremely organised teaching new ringers. folders and boxes with pretty much everything I My home tower is now Fenham, and I have been could possibly need for the future. My thanks go Tower Captain there for a few years. As well as to Karen for all the hard work she has done over ringing, I seem to do a lot of running, including the years of being the General Secretary.

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Remembering votes for women by Karen Dickinson

This and the next three pages are a tribute to those women who fought for the right to vote

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Snow ? What snow ?? by Sonia Thompson

When “The Beast from the guarantees. It is not uncom- the path to the porch door pair. In our “compact” bel- East”, or “The Hysteria mon for events and activi- were cleared by mid morn- fry however we were quite from Siberia” as someone ties to be cancelled during ing ready to receive the cozy, especially with all that dryly called it on the ra- the winter months, Thurs- wedding party. ringing! There was more dio, arrived at the end of day practice nights in- ringing as the couple left Ringing started at February, the Derwent cluded. However, we are the church to head back to 11.40 for the 12noon wed- Valley on the Durham/ always open for business on Beamish. They didn’t hang ding but, as predicted, Northumberland border Sunday mornings and the around too long for photo- word soon came through was transformed into a bells ring out over the val- graphs! that the bride was going to spectacular snowy winter ley no matter what the be very late indeed. Appar- The day had seen a wonderland. The subzero weather. Ringers who live ently, she was travelling monumental response and temperatures froze the fast locally arrive on foot, those from Beamish Hall Hotel, effort from both those con- -moving river at its heart who use transport have near Stanley, and thus nected with St. Cuthbert’s and, like much of the 4x4s and park at the top of would be negotiating some and those from the wider North East of England, Church Bank and walk of the highest ground in Co. community. The Vicar there were treacherous down. We are always Durham en route. We were wrote in the parish maga- road conditions, shops and there. going to be in for a rather zine, “It’s one of the most businesses closed, plus Now, this year, we long session. As there was encouraging things I’ve ever children enjoyed several had two weddings booked more than 6 of us (it’s good known” and it was, of extra days off school. It is in for the end of February – to have a spare and share) course, one of so many not unusual for the Con- both wanting the bells. The we couldn’t go for a quar- heartwarming and “Dunkirk sett area to experience first wedding, on Saturday ter peal, so we rang every- Spirit” stories around the snowy conditions. In fact, 24th, enjoyed a cold but thing within our capability country over the next few some of us feel somewhat gloriously sunny day. The and then rung them all over days. Facebook was plas- disgruntled if we don’t second one, on the last day again, and again. The cou- tered with images and the have any such winter of the month, was bitter ple really did have value for story was covered by The weather. It is, however, and anything but sunny. money. It was a pity they Chronicle, The Northern unusual to have weddings Snow came with a venge- weren’t there to hear it! Echo, The Church Times, booked in church for this ance the day before and, The Times of Malta(!) and time of year. The Groom and with severe weather warn- on the BBC and other web- Best Man arrived in blizzard For those of you ings in place for the next sites. It was even on 3 radio conditions about 12.40 fol- not familiar with the couple of days, the Vicar stations. lowed eventually by the church of St. Cuthbert, put an appeal out on Face- bride in a 4x4 a couple of We decided that we should Benfieldside, you should book for any help in clear- minutes before 1 o’clock. have a group photograph to know that it is situated on ing some of the tonnes of Not too bad under the cir- put up on Bellboard as a a hillside and, at its steep- snow on the route down to cumstances and just within record of what will proba- est, Church Bank has a the Church. By 9.00 the “late bride” record bly be one of the most gradient of 1:7. Access to o’clock the following which stands at 60 minutes memorable weddings we the church is therefore morning an army of around set in March 2008. The are ever likely to ring for. very hazardous in bad win- 40 folks (including a num- service took place in a bit- Something to tell the grand- ter weather, all the locals ber of the ringers) were terly cold church as the children, as someone put it. steering well clear. Al- there shovelling for Eng- heating system had catastro- though this is the road to land. With the help of a The band would like to as- phically failed about 10 days the parish church, the tractor and a Land Rover, sociate this article with Paul earlier. The 168 years old council does not bother to fitted with a snow plough Smith (Consett) who was cast iron pipework under snow bound in Ouston, grit unless requested to do and carrying bags of grit, the flooring had ruptured Chester-le-Street and unable so for such as funerals. Church Bank, the church and is deemed beyond re- to ring. Even then there are no hall car park opposite and Images on next page….

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Northern district Scottish trip by Clive Moon

In 2013 there were 36 people theirs at St Cuthbert’s, Edin- on the trip, including David who went on the Northern burgh, and we passed on the Horne and Judith Edmondson District to Edinburgh. On 2nd stairs. St Cuthbert’s are a from Carlisle Cathedral, and Top: Listening to St June 2018 it was a more se- 21cwt 10 with a small ringing Liz Evans from Dundee. I Cuthberts, Darlington ring- lect group that returned to chamber and a short draught know of several people who ing at St Cuthberts, Edin- Edinburgh, just 15 of us this – much friendlier bells! After would have liked to have burgh year, but still a very enjoy- an enjoyable ring at St come with us, but were not able trip. Cuthbert’s we had the after- able to for one reason or an- Middle: Ringing at St An- noon free, and we all went other, and I am sorry you drew & St George For those of us travelling by our different ways, which were not able to join us. I train from Newcastle or Mor- A “garden wedding”. Sadly, included Wetherspoons, ex- hope you, and others, will be peth, Virgin Trains didn’t get no mini-ring or hand bells ploring the old town, and the able to come next year, us off to a good start, as the Botanic Gardens. The two which might be “ND return train was 20 minutes late youngest members of the trip to York”! leaving Newcastle, and 37 discovered the Meadows Fes- minutes late arriving at Hay- tival and were not seen at the market. Luckily there were 8 last tower! people not on that train, so ringing on the 12 at St Mary’s This was St Andrew & St was able to start without us, George on George Street, a and when we arrived Liz Ev- 14cwt ring of eight rung from ans (former Northern District the stairs. They have a longish secretary who is now living in draught, but are easy to ring, Dundee) was waiting to show and we produced some of our us in, and to join us for the best ringing there. day. We are grateful to the I haven’t mentioned the tower captain at St Mary’s for weather! The forecast was extending our ringing time not good, and I certainly as- there, so we rang for nearly sumed that we would get wet an hour in spite of the late on our walk across Edin- train. burgh, but it stayed fine for For those yet to ring in Edin- most of the day, the rain burgh, I would recommend a holding off until the final visit to St Mary’s Cathedral, short walk to the station. even though the bells are not The 18.30 to Newcastle from particularly easy to ring. Edinburgh Waverley was on There is a good view of the time – and the two youngest new town from the roof on members of the trip were on the way to the tower, and the it! We had a sociable journey ringing chamber is large and home: one of the advantages impressive. There is a large of a train trip is that you have rope circle, heavy back bells plenty of time to talk to peo- (tenor 41cwt) and a longish ple. draught, and these things combine to make the bells Thanks to those who made it something of a challenge. I possible to ring in Edinburgh, thought we coped with them including Barbara Bell and quite well. Anne Leigh Brown, and Mark Hutcheson who let us in at St Coincidentally St Cuthbert’s, Mary’s, and Simon Aves who Darlington were visiting Ed- let us in at both St Cuthbert’s inburgh the same weekend, and St Andrew & St George. and our ringing followed Thanks to all those who came

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GOGMAGOG by Chris Enzor Gogmagog: Voices of the Bells, and how 4 handbell ringers ended up in a Newcastle recording studio.

It all started with an email in singers, drawing lyrics from The composition itself is Bellboard research revealed December 2017. Did Karen the story of the church’s his- fairly straightforward [photo only 10 records of Bob Tri- Dickinson, then General Sec- torical social roles and com- 2], although the record in the ples in hand in the last 20 retary of the Durham & New- munity who now inhabit Old D&N archive is in what is years; 3 of these were peals castle DACBR, know anyone Sunderland. The final work now regarded as ‘old nota- marking the 300th anniversary who could help with ringing, will be recorded in such a tion’ where M (presumably of the first true peal, one was on handbells, part of a peal way that when installed in the for ‘Middle’) meant the 7th in a record length and 2 were composition of Plain Bob church it will be played back 5/6 up. A bit of simple ar- on tower bells with one Triples, and could someone via eight speakers. rangement resulted in a quar- member of the band ringing help with deciphering an old ter peal using the first 15 double handed! Some serious During his first visit to the composition of Plain Bob course of the peal composi- practice was clearly going to church, Matt saw the peal Triples by one Benjamin An- tion, which was then a suit- be needed, and particular board [photo 1] in the tower nable? able length for recording for thanks go to Clive Moon who and figured that the peal must Matt’s purposes. helped out with the practice Let’s re-wind a bit. The have been considered special sessions but did not ring on church at Holy Trinity, Sun- enough to be worthy of a Chris then set about finding a the day itself. derland has been in the hands permanent record, and set band who would be able to of the Churches Conservation about researching it, which manage to ring PB Triples in The next stage was to record Trust since the late 1980s. led him to contact the D&N. hand to a reasonable stan- part of the peal, and Matt The bells, whilst ringable A meeting followed one dard. It was soon realised that duly arranged a session at until a couple of years ago, snowy January afternoon, ringing Bob Triples in hand is Blank Studios, in Newcastle. are generally in need of some when Chris Enzor (D&N not as straightforward as it The studio is in a converted attention and there are also President) gave Matt a crash sounds. Most handbell ring- motorcycle show room, and more serious issues with the course in how change ringing ers are familiar with even bell had only just been com- state of the tower. For the works, how Plain Bob Triples methods, such as Bob Minor pleted. We were privileged church building, conservation is structured, what the calls and Bob Major, but Bob Tri- to be the first to officially use work begins in Autumn mean, what the figures in the ples turned out to be pecu- the facilities. The band, pic- 2018, with the aim of it being composition mean and so on. liarly tricky. A quick bit of tured [photo 3] was (left to open to the public as a community space in 2019. The email in question came from Matt Stokes, a visual artist based in Blaydon on Tyne. Matt was selected as part of an Arts Humanities Research Council project with Newcastle University to work with the CCT to produce an art commission for Holy Trinity Church. His proposal consisted of creating a sound installation for the nave of the church that rein- terprets the Annable composition, by working with local composers, musicians and

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GOGMAGOG continued from page 11

right) Neville Parkin and rather unfamiliar method and history of Holy Trinity other of those unusual and Anne from Hexham, Chris and the added pressure of Church being interwoven fascinating experiences that Enzor from Heighington being recorded did not help into the handbell ringing. ringing occasionally presents. and Jennie Town from to make for a relaxed at- The aim is then to play the Page 13 for record of the peal Northallerton. This was mosphere! After a decent resulting piece within the and Annable’s composition unfamiliar territory to us break, a second quarter was nave as a sound installation, all, to see carefully posi- also scored using Anne and so that people visiting the tioned microphones and a Neville’s glorious heavier church can appreciate some- sound proof room with Sam octave in G. The bad news thing of the history and Grant, the sound engineer, was that a technical problem heritage of the building. located next door with with one of the micro- We are not claiming this as communication via loud- phones meant that we had a first, as there are a num- speaker. After some tweak- to ring the last 6 courses ber of commercial re- ing of positioning and again, but this was soon cordings of handbell ringing checking of sound levels, sorted. in existence. But it is not we set off ringing on a light So, the work of the handbell every day that handbell set of bells in F, and a steady ringers is done. The project ringers end up having their quarter was scored. All the has some way to go yet, performance recorded in band found the experience with further music and vo- this way. On reflection, it somewhat daunting, the cals influenced by the peal was great fun, and yet an-

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GOGMAGOG continued from page 12

Durham & Newcastle Diocesan Association Newcastle upon Tyne Blank Studios, Warwick Street Sunday, 8 April 2018 in 45 (12 in F) 1400 Plain Bob Triples Composed by Benjamin Annable (arr C H Enzor) 1–2 Anne Parkin 3–4 Jennifer Town 5–6 Chris Enzor (C) 7–8 Neville Parkin Recorded as the first part of a heritage project linked to Holy Trinity, Sunderland (1 of 2) Durham & Newcastle Diocesan Association Newcastle upon Tyne Blank Studios, Warwick Street Sunday, 8 April 2018 in 46m (18 in G) 1400 Plain Bob Triples Composed by Benjamin Annable (arr C H Enzor) 1–2 Anne Parkin 3–4 Jennifer A Town 5–6 Chris Enzor (C) 7–8 Neville Parkin Recorded as the first part of a heritage project linked to Holy Trinity, Sunderland (2 of 2)

Holy Trinity Church, Sunderland will be opened specially for Gogmagog: Voices of the Bells each weekend from 7th July to 23rd September 2018, and throughout Tall Ships.

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SUPPLEMENT TO GOGMAGOG by Matt Stokes, Organiser

I just wanted to update you about ‘Gogmagog: Voices of the Bells’ as I know I’ve been quiet over the past couple of months! The recorded composition is now almost complete. We have one more instrument and vocal to put into the mix, then need to test the piece in Holy Trinity to see how it sounds, since we are using 8 speakers for audio play-back in the nave. I’m sure it’ll need the odd tweak, but this will be an exciting part of the process. We've been a little delayed in moving to this stage of the project, due to some preliminary conservation work in Holy Trinity uncovering asbestos, so the building has been closed for a few weeks whilst this was removed. Regarding the composition, the piece starts with the handbells on their own, before other instruments/vocals are introduced. The composition then goes through five clear sections (each re- flecting moments in the history of Holy Trinity and the East End of Sunderland), that use the handbells as a platform to built from. Other instruments/vocals use the handbells for timing, but play independent and complementing melo- dies. The handbells are constant throughout the piece - sometimes they are very present and at other times less so, as other instruments and voices are heavily layered over them. We did end up using a section of the out of tune heavy G set too - for the section connected to the arrival of Cholera in Sunderland! Again, due to holding on for an all clear from the church’s conservation team regarding the asbestos, we now have the green light for the launch, which is on Friday 6th July, 6-8pm at Holy Trinity Church. (See invite below). Really hope you can all make it along… drinks will be served! Looking forward to seeing you soon. Many thanks and best wishes Matt

PS. Do invite bellringing colleagues or anyone else along to the launch who you think might be interested!

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Six bell striking competition by Chris Enzor

On one of the first really quality of the ringing, offer- glorious days of the year ing positive suggestions for ringers from various parts of improving the leading. At the D&N converged at Jes- row 202, a branch fell on the mond to battle it out for the judge’s head, which was be- Anderson Rose Bowl. Sadly, lieved not to be causatively the Southern District was not linked to anything to do with represented but to their the quality of the ringing! credit the Northern District Hexham were third to ring, managed to field the maxi- ringing Plain Bob Doubles. mum of 3 teams, with Ben- This was beautiful ringing fieldside representing the according to the judge, with Central District. which the other ringers lis- St George, Jesmond was just tening outside agreed. Simon the right venue, the lovely described the ringing as met- weather meant that those ronomic, and a delight to who were not ringing could listen to, accompanied as it sit outside the adjacent hall was by some lovely bird and listen, while drinking song. tea, or if the sun was too hot, Last to ring were the band take refuge in the hall. The from Benfieldside, who also local band had provided a rang Plain Bob Doubles. This fine spread of cake and bis- was again some very nice cuits and a seemingly never ringing with good leading ending supply of hot and cold particularly noticeable. drinks. The results? Not for the first Simon Woof, from Hepton- time, Hexham were the wor- stall, had agreed to make the thy winners; and Clive Moon long trip to judge the compe- duly accepted the trophy, tition, and he was soon in- which meant, having brought stalled in the car park with it with him, he had to take it his car roof down, to cast a back home! critical ear over the proceed- ings. He was later to regret Chris Enzor thanked Simon having the roof down! for his work as the judge, noting that his comments The combined Fenham/ were without exception posi- Jesmond team were the first tive and constructive. Chris to compete, ringing call also profusely thanked the changes. Simon (who of local ringers for their efforts course did not know which in providing the superb re- team was which) commented freshments. on their use of rounds at the beginning to settle the speed and rhythm, and he noted that their ringing improved as the test piece went on. Second up were Wylam, quite at home on the heavy bells, also ringing call changes. Simon again commented positively on the

Page 18 D&N Times

In memory of janet woods of hurworth by Chris Enzor

Janet Woods sadly died on 29 De- trated the liaison! Sam was not In 1979, the family moved to Hur- cember 2017 at Heighington, cember 2017 after a short illness. allowed to learn to ring, but re- worth, just outside Darlington, and and so it came as a shock to us all members going on several ringing Janet became a regular ringer on the to find out that she had been Janet was born in 1943 in Darling- holidays to different parts of the heavy (17cwt) 6 there. Latterly, she admitted to hospital just before ton, where she grew up the only country, and even being allowed always rang the 4th, and those who Christmas and that she was seri- child of Harry and Norah Warwick. into the belfries. rang for her memorial service were ously ill. She met Brenda Cooke (now very conscious that she would be Brenda Davidson), one of Tom Neal and Tony, the couple’s two As was so typical of Janet, she listening for any slight striking er- Cooke’s daughters, at Darlington children were born in 1975 and wanted no fuss. A memorial rors from that bell. Girls’ High School. One night, 1978 respectively and Janet left service was held at Hurworth on Janet went to a practice night at St teaching to become a full time Janet later returned to do supply 11 January 2018, immediately Cuthbert’s Darlington, to see what mother. They were introduced to teaching and later still returned to after a family service at the cre- ringing was all about, and the rest, ringing but never took it as seri- full time science teaching at Long- matorium. She had insisted that as they say, is history. She was ously as their mother did. Neal’s field School in Darlington. She there be no formal eulogy, so the taught by Tom, and rang with a introduction was on a ringing holi- retired from teaching in 1995, but vicar had to confine himself to a strong band which included other day, at the age of 15 months, to continued to provide strong support brief ‘address’ instead. It was a well known ringers such as Fred Church Stretton – where Sam en- to ringing locally. In addition to tribute to Janet that the church Hodgson, Maurice Stewart and joyed a week’s child minding. Janet Hurworth’s practice night, she used was full, with many having to Ernest Pannell. She was to remain also liked to find towers to ring at to attend practices regularly at stand. close friends with Brenda and later whenever the family were away on Heighington and Shildon, providing On 11 March 2018, a peal was Brenda’s husband Bill Davidson. holiday and provision had to be much needed experience to help specially arranged and rung in made for Sunday and practice night bring along other ringers. She was Double Norwich, a favourite memory of Janet, by a band ringing at local towers whilst Sam also a strong supporter of the south- method at the time, was her first mainly from the southern dis- and the boys enjoyed going to local ern district of the Durham & New- peal, at St Cuthbert’s in 1961. In trict, but including Bill David- parks. castle DACBR and would attend 1962 and 1963 she rang a number son. Yorkshire S Major was meetings and outings whenever she of peals, mainly surprise major, for Later, coach holidays included a Janet’s most popular method for could. She particularly enjoyed the Manchester University Guild, as tour to the Isle of Wight where she peals (9 in all), and was therefore joining in with the advanced prac- by then she was at teacher training rang at Shanklin, and was offered a the clear choice for her memorial tices which had been set up not so college in Didsbury. Having quali- lift for the next night to another peal. very long before she died, and was fied as a science teacher, in 1964 tower while Sam had a ride to Ryde on the train; and another year ring- always pleased when Stedman Tri- Our thoughts are with Sam and she started work at Darlington ing at Ilfracombe. These interludes ples was on the agenda. Despite all the members of Janet’s fam- Central School. In 1968, coinciding always provided very friendly eve- being ill, she insisted on attending ily. She will be greatly missed. with the end of steam on British nings. A number of holidays at the D&N Carol Service on 18 De- Railways, she and Sam (a steam Micheldever (Hampshire) provided enthusiast), who was also a teacher very pleasant ringing with the ques- at Central School, began going out tion on leaving “when will you be Durham & Newcastle Diocesan As- much to the delight of some of the here again, thanks for coming to sociation ring”. pupils who felt that they had orches- Darlington, Durham St Cuthbert Janet Woods (1943 to 2018) Sunday, 11 March 2018 in 3h 8m (18–0– 14 in F) 5058 Yorkshire Surprise Major Composed by Daniel Brady 1 Catherine H Millar 2 Jack Hanlon 3 Helen L Scott 4 William Davidson 5 Philip M Park 6 Christopher J P Scott 7 Christopher M Mansfield 8 Christopher H Enzor (C) The Team who rang for In loving memory of Janet Woods, 1943 Janet on 11th March 2018 to 2017.

Page 19 D&N Times

Town moor triples practice by Jo Ayre

Last year, Fenham, Gosforth these practices now, and had hunt, plain hunt to bob dou- but hope to continue these and Jesmond ringers got to- a wee competition to give the bles, and bob doubles to practices in the Autumn. gether to create an additional practices a catchy name. grandsire doubles. We have If you happen to be at a monthly practice, to be held Stephen Edwards won a nice also concentrated on striking loose end and it just hap- in turn at each tower. The bottle of wine after his entry and leading. Ringing at dif- pens to be around the sec- aim of this practice was to of “Town Moor Triples”. ferent towers has provided ond Tuesday of the month, provide the three towers an Surprisingly, I couldn’t find a some people the opportunity and you’re in the Newcas- opportunity to bring on their method called this (I wonder to see how their ringing tle vicinity, please send me inexperienced ringers which who will be the first to check styles fair, but also to meet an email to check when were perhaps stuck at a spe- this out?!) but it sounds like new people outside of their our next practice is on – cific stage, and the lack of there should be! own towers, and hopefully you would be most wel- experienced ringers meant give them the confidence to Since the start of these prac- come to join us! they could not progress. go to those tower’s usual tices, we’ve seen ringers go- practice as a visitor. We’re We’ve had about nine of ing from call changes to plain now having a summer break,

Northern district quiz night by Jo Ayre

Holy Week is traditionally a weeks to….. a gentry num- homemade dishes. I recall a Many thanks go to those non-ringing week in some ber. All were (mostly) well particularly lovely homemade who turned out and to all parts of the region, which behaved, with the star of the salad offering, which on my who donated raffle prizes, gives the Northern District evening being little Elidh second round had been de- and, of course, to Karen the opportunity to hold a who pretty much slept molished by those before me. for being an entertaining Quiz night. This year’s quiz through the entire night! It Quiz Master and providing The teams waited with baited was held at Newburn’s Parish was great to see Matt and us with trickiest of ques- breath for the result – which Hall, and was well attended. Jessie looking well and very tions – although I do hope were Ponteland in first place, comfortable as new parents. this job is not part of the I will let you into a little se- followed by North Shields in General Secretary’s tasks!! cret here – this one was my The “Bring and Share” style second. Hmm, maybe we ought to first ND quiz night. I hope tea ensured that there was All in all, it was a great eve- consider establishing a that life does not prevent me plenty to choose from, with ning, and we managed to Quiz Master officer…. from going to future ones, as some tasty savoury and sweet raise £169.00 for the BRF. I had a great time. Firstly, our Quiz Master (Karen Dickinson) made sure that everyone knew the rules and dished out the paper- work. The Celebrity photos had many stumped, and I personally thought I was going to be the weaker link in my team. However, when it came to the anagrams, I was in my element. Eleven teams took part, and over 70 people attended, with an age range of about 3

Volume 1 Issue 2 Page 20

Hartlepool bellringer who perished in shipping disaster honoured

Printed in Hartlepool Mail 24 Mar 2018

Frederick Charles McCarthy, aged 33, was among 201 sailors who died when Her Majesty’s Yacht Iolaire sank near the Isle of Lewis in the Scottish Outer Hebrides on New Year’s Day in 1919.

The vessel was returning from the First World War when it hit rocks in bad weather just outside Stornoway harbour

Yesterday, a memorial called a cairn made up of 201 stones – representing one for each person who died – collected by school children from each sailor’s home town or village, was unveiled on the island. The stone for Frederick was supplied by local bellringer Andrew Frost after reading an appeal in the Hartlepool Mail. Fred was a bellringer at Stranton Church, in Hartlepool, and was a member of the Durham and Newcastle Association of Bellringers. He is commemorated on a plaque in Newcastle Cathedral and also on a plaque in Stranton Church. The Nicolson Institute, the main secondary school on the Isle of Lewis, decided to create the memorial to commemorate the tragic event ahead of its Centenary. Project organiser Tony Robson said of the unveiling ceremony: “I am just so pleased. “The Nicholson is very proud to have participated in this and produced something that is going to last another century at least.“We had some difficulty getting stones from one or two places. We are very grateful to the Hartlepool Mail for coming to the rescue and putting us in touch with somebody who knew Frederick rather than someone going out and randomly picking a stone.“It shows if you are a bell ringer they don’t forget you.” Fred is believed to have been a carpenter by trade and lived in Hope Street, West Harlepool, before joining the Mercantile Marine Reserve in the First World War.The Iolaire, which means Eagle in Gaelic, was carrying 281 people on board when she ran into trouble only about 75ft from the shore.Only 81 people survived. The memorial also includes a specially made bench, and a slate engraving.It is the first monument to the disaster on the island.Tony said previously: “For a small community to lose 201 young guys, it was almost unspoken of for years. “It was probably one of Britain’s worst peace- time shipping disasters.”

Hartlepool bellringers are planning to ring a quarter peal at Stranton on 1st January 2019 to remember Fredrick McCarthy.

The plaque on the Iolaire Monument Local children and project leaders at the unveiling

Page 21 D&N Times

Goings on in the central district by Elizabeth Thompson

In January, the Central District attended but we soldiered on went. What better way to was involved with a successful and enjoyed a number of spend an afternoon than in outcome to the 10/12 bell "Cake breaks" in between the pub on a Saturday! This Quarter Peal weekend during ringing. March also took us month also found the Central which several ringers scored to Sunderland for our Dis- District come second in the 6 their first Quarter Peal on trict practice at St Ignatius bell striking competition . higher bells. This then lead us the Martyr where we had a nicely into February where we very productive practice in- After a busy five months, we held our 6 bell striking compe- cluding 8 spliced! are now in June and we had tition eliminator at Shincliffe. our District Meeting at Three teams turned up along It was all go in April when Lanchester. We had a good with an "illegal" band which Benfieldside hosted the turn out and a lovely tea was was made up on the day (most AGM. So many people in supplied by the local ringers. of whom had never rung in a such a small belfry was a bit striking competition!). Febru- of a squeeze! Ringing started Quarter Peals were rung ary was also the first month in off at Consett then down to at Durham St Oswald's, He- which we launched our new Blackhill where people could worth and Sunderland Min- Advanced 8 bell practice which get a tower grab, followed by ster as part of the Ringing to runs on the third Sunday of the meeting and tea in the Remember WW1 Com- every month. This has been church hall at Benfieldside. A memoration. very well attended and has al- great day was had by all. lowed us to really focus on our The Central District are now surprise methods. Sadly in May the District looking forward to July when Practice which was due to be we hold our "First Quarter March brought the Young Ring- held at Heworth was a non peal" month. Keeping look- ers to our district and ringing starter due to a lock out as ing on BellBoard to see how was held at St Oswald's Dur- well as only having two ring- we do! ham. Sadly, it wasn't very well ers, so off to the pub they

Page 22 D&N Times

EIGHT BELL STRIKING COMPETITION by Andrew Frost

On 17th March 2018 Stranton but if they were pulled out of When the results, together Church Hartlepool played host to the hat first, they should be with the judge’s comments the annual 8 bell striking compe- moved back in the order. were read out, not only did tition. Teams of ringers trav- Luckily, just as the draw was Hartlepool find they had elled from Hexham and Benfield- to be made, they turned up. won the Presidents’ Plate side to compete with Hartlepool but also the Freda Burton for the two trophies. Hartlepool have only entered Cup. You can see the look this competition once before of delight (and amazement) Readers may remember that the so the team was a little nerv- on their faces in the picture. weather on 17th March was, to ous. Fellow Hartlepool guild put it politely, atrocious. Gales, ringers put on a light tea in Here’s hoping the weather snow and freezing temperatures the church and each team in is more benign for the com- meant that the competition was turn took to the ringing petition in 2019 nearly cancelled. The judge had chamber for their “test piece. Left: The winners; Jan to travel from Leeds but, sensi- The judge, James Holds- Wilderspin, Ed Mortimer, bly, chose the train. worth, was wrapped up Ailsa Robinson, Andy Kaye, against the cold in a car in Brian Telfer, Barbara Busby, The weather was so bad for those Camerons Car Park (behind Joseph Wilson ((Revd An- travelling from Hexham that half the church) throughout the drew Craig also rang) the team hadn’t arrived at Stran- competition and he told eve- ton when it was time for the ryone afterwards that he was Right: James Holdsworth draw. Hasty discussions ensued pleased that only three teams giving judgement after and it was decided that Hexham had entered !!! thawing out !! should be included in the draw,

Page 23 D&N Times

Goings on in the southern district by Athea Enzor

We had a steady start during control, only to find out this way striking competitions of “firsts”. Congratulations the first six months of 2018 in was because the bells were are marked and the impor- should go to Kate Millar the Southern District, begin- not ringing! Congratulations tance of ringing within the from St Cuthbert’s, Dar- ning, in February, with an to the Richmond ringers in capabilities of the band. lington, who clocked up opportunity to ring on the all they have achieved with Cups of tea and biscuits four firsts this year, two of new bells, just over the border their hard work and enthusi- helped our concentration, which were on handbells. into North Yorkshire, at Rich- asm. and we again appreciated Well done, Kate! mond. All were agreed that the facilities that are avail- In April a select band of ringable at Holy Trinity, which Regular advanced practices the bells are a delight to ring ers met for a “fun” striking have continued, twice each and the ringing chamber is make it an ideal venue for competition at Holy Trinity workshop sessions. month, at St John’s, Dar- very smart. We understand in Darlington. This took the lington, and Jack continues that they are still working on form of some short touches As last year May was to challenge us all with new optimizing the sound control, of ringing, each of which deemed to be an extended methods. We have also and indeed Peter Trewby were recorded. We were month of “firsts”. Although enjoyed joint 10 and 12 bell could be seen outside the then all able to listen to our we were not able to repeat practices with the Central church with his sound meter ringing and judge ourselves! the achievements of 2017, District, at Stockton. We while we were ringing. One This helped us to work on we recorded seven quarter are now looking forward to of our ringers commented on our listening skills as well as peals at five different our District outing to North the effectiveness of the sound to begin to understand the “towers” involving a range Tyneside. Southern District Firsts Month Quarter Peals

Darlington, 325 Coniscliffe Road Darlington, St Cuthbert Sunday, 29 April 2018 in 43m (15 in C) Sunday, 13 May 2018 in 45m (18–0–14 in F) 1312 Kent Treble Bob Major 1250 Biddenden Surprise Major 1–2 Anthea Enzor Composed by D Brady 3–4 Chris Enzor (C) 1 Kate Millar 5–6 Kate Millar 2 Anthea Enzor 7–8 Carol Pratt 3 Helen Scott 1st Kent: 5-6 4 Ashley Law 5 Karen McCleave 6 Ross Weddell 7 Chris Enzor (C) 8 Jack Hanlon 1st in method for all

Darlington, Holy Trinity Darlington, Holy Trinity Sunday, 6 May 2018 in 43m (6–3–9 in B♭) Sunday, 3 June 2018 in 41m (6–3–9 in B♭) 1260 Stedman Doubles 1260 Doubles (10m/p) 1 Carol Pratt 180 Stedman, 120 each of Grandsire, St Simon's, St Martin's, St 2 Jack Hanlon Osmund, Plain Bob, St Nicholas, Winchendon Place, St Remigius 3 Helen Scott & Reverse Canterbury Pleasure. 4 Ross Weddell 1 Chris Enzor (C) 5 Chris Enzor (C) 2 Chris Mansfield 6 Chris Blanks 3 Helen Scott 4 Kate Millar 1st Stedman - 1, and 1st Stedman Doubles as Conductor 5 Anthea Enzor 6 Davina Tomlinson 1st cover - 6. First in most of the methods - 4.

Page 24 D&N Times

More southern district goings on by Athea Enzor

Southern District Firsts Month Quarter Peals Continued

Darlington, St John Darlington, 325 Coniscliffe Road Tuesday, 8 May 2018 (10–0–10 in G) Sunday, 3 June 2018 in 40m (15 in C) 1260 Grandsire Triples 1272 Kent Treble Bob Minor 1 Anthea Enzor 1–2 Anthea Enzor 2 Kate Millar 3–4 Chris Enzor (C) 3 Ross Weddell 5–6 Kate Millar 4 Ashley Law 1st Kent Minor in hand - 5-6 5 Jack Hanlon 6 Brian Telfer 7 Chris Enzor (C) 8 Stephen Duguid 1st Grandsire Triples - 6

Hartlepool, St Aidan Thursday, 10 May 2018 in 44 (14–0–7 in F♯) 1260 Plain Bob Doubles 1 Jan Wilderspin 2 Ailsa Robinson 3 Brian W Telfer 4 Joseph Wilson 5 Jack Hanlon (C) 6 Rev Andrew Craig First away from cover - 1 First for 10 years - 2

Page 25 D&N Times

D&N COMMEMORATIVE RINGING IN 2018

Towers in the D&N have been ringing on the centenary to remember those from the tower who died in World War One. 2018 will continue this tradition. In addition, Newcastle Cathedral will attempt a Quarter Peal on the same day as each anniversary

Sunday 02 September 2018 Morpeth, The Watch Tower Monday 10 September 2018 Hexham Abbey Wednesday 03 October 2018 Jesmond, St George Tuesday 09 October 2018 Bishop Auckland, St Andrew Tuesday 06 November 2018 Bishop Auckland, St Andrew Tuesday 01 January 2019 Stranton, Hartlepool

The following pages Commemorate those members of the D&N who died during World War One and who were remembered on the centenary of their death between September 1917 and March 1918

With thanks to Ellen Crabtree for researching and collating the information for publication

Page 26 D&N Times

Private Herbert Guthrie (26 October 1917) Private Herbert Guthrie, Benwell, Durham & Newcastle. Died 26/10/1917 age 33. Royal Marine Light Infantry 1st R.M. Bn. R.N. Div. Service No.CH/2062(S). Commemorated at Tyne Cot Memorial, Bel- gium, Panel 1 and 162A.

Private Guthrie's entry on the Central Council Roll of Honour, held at St Paul’s Cathedral

Herbert Guthrie was born on 3 October 1884, one of seven children born to David Sinclair Marwick and Margaret Ann (née Hodge). Five survived at the 1911 census. Herbert married Ada (née Binns of 40 Hampstead Road, Benwell) in 1911. Their son was David John Binns Guthrie (1913 – 1995). They lived at 260 Clara Street Benwell. Herbert was employed as a clerk. He enlisted in the Royal Marine Light Infantry 1st R.M. Bn. R.N. Div. Service No.CH/2062(S). He died aged 33, on 26 Oc- tober 1917. Herbert is commemorated at the Tyne Cot memorial in Belgium on panel 1 – 162A, on the memorial board inside Benwell Church and on the bellringers memorial plaque in Newcastle Cathedral.

Ringing took place to remember Private Guthrie:

Benwell, St James Thursday, 26 October 2017 in 50 mins (16) 1320 Doubles 480 Stedman, 480 Grandsire, 360 Southrepps. 1 Barbara Davies 2 Karen Dickinson 3 Alan M Barber 4 Howard E J Smith (C) 5 Stephen B Bell 6 Daniel Smith The bells of this Church were rung today as part of “Ringing to Remember” – the Durham & Newcastle Association of Church Bellringers - First World War ringing commemoration. On this day one hundred years ago a bellringer from Benwell was killed. We rang to celebrate his life and the ultimate sacrifice that he made along with all the other men of Benwell commemorated on the boards inside the base of the tower. Private Herbert Guthrie.

Newcastle Cathedral Thursday, 26 October 2017 in 45 mins (8–0–02) Continued Overleaf

Page 27 D&N Times

Private Herbert Guthrie ( contd )

1260 Minor 720 Cambridge S., 540 Plain Bob 1 Howard E J Smith 2 David Hamby 3 J Michael Procter 4 Karen Dickinson 5 Richard Grainger 6 Stephen B Bell (C) The bells of this Cathedral were rung today as part of “Ringing to Remember” – the Durham & Newcastle Association of Church Bellringers - First World War ringing commemoration. On this day one hundred years ago a bellringer from Benwell was killed. We rang to celebrate his life and the ultimate sacrifice that he made. Private Herbert Guthrie. They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them. Acting Bombardier Joseph William Jobling (18 September 1917) Acting Bombardier Joseph William Jobling Ringer at Stranton. Enlisted with the Royal Garrison Ar- tillery 265th Siege Bty. Service No.113917. Died on 18 September 1917 aged 39. Commemorated at The Huts Cemetery, Belgium, Grave VI B 4.

Joseph Jobling’s entry on the Central Council Roll of Honour, held at St Paul’s Cathedral Joseph was born during the fourth quarter of 1877 and baptised on 21 November 1877 at Stranton. The son of Edward Job- ling and Ann Jobling of West Hartlepool, Joseph was one of ten children. Joseph married Elizabeth Dent in 1905. They had a son, Edgar Jobling. In the 1911 census they were listed as living at 68 Wansbeck Gardens, West Hartlepool. Joseph worked as a primary school teacher before enlisting with the Royal Garrison Artillery 265th Siege Battery.

The CWGC holds records for Joseph Jobling.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them.

Page 28 D&N Times

Joseph William Jobling ( contd )

On 18 September 2017 various ringing took place in the North-East to remember Stranton ringer Joseph Jobling.

A quarter peal was rung in memory of Joseph at Stranton.

Durham & Newcastle Diocesan Association Hartlepool, Durham All Saints, Stranton Monday, 18 September 2017 in 50 minutes (12–3–4 in F) 1344 Plain Bob Triples 1 Barbara Busby 2 Anthea Enzor 3 Joseph Wilson L to R: Andrew Frost, Andy Kaye, Chris Enzor, Anthea Enzor, 4 Andy Kaye Joseph Wilson, Barbara Busby, Brian Telfer, Jack Hanlon 5 Chris Enzor 6 Brian Telfer 7 Jack Hanlon (C) 8 Andrew Frost The bells of All Saints Church, Stranton were rung this evening as part of “Ringing to Remember” – the Durham & Newcastle Association of Church Bellringers First World War ringing commemoration. On this day one hundred years ago a bellringer from this tower was killed in action. We rang to celebrate his life and the ultimate sacrifice that he made. Acting Bombardier Joseph William Jobling. Private Stanley Willis Wilkinson (24 October 1917) Private Stanley Willis Wilkinson, Barnard Castle, Barnard Castle Parish Ringers. Died 24/10/1917 age 19. Sherwood Foresters (Notts and Derby Regiment) 16th Bn. Service No.72226. Commemorated at Tyne Cot Memorial, Belgium, Panel 102.

Stanley, born in Barnard Castle in 1899, was the son of Thomas and Sarah Wilkinson of Portland Square, King Street, Barnard Castle. He was one of seven children, three surviving at the 1911 census. Stanley had worked for a short time in Mr T W Bainbridge’s office prior to enlisting at the age of 18. He had been a bellringer at St Mary’s Parish Church but, as far as is known, he was not a D and N member. Stanley also taught one of the Sunday School classes. He served with 16th Battalion Sherwood Foresters, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire Regiment; his service number was 72226.

Stanley died after having been hit by shrapnel and had only been serving with the army for 7 months. He is commemorated on the Tyne Cot Memorial, Belgium on panel 102.

The CWGC holds records for Stanley.

Page 29 D&N Times

Private Stanley Willis Wilkinson ( contd )

Ringing took place to remember Private Wilkinson:

Durham & Newcastle Diocesan Association Barnard Castle, Durham St Mary Tuesday, 24 October 2017 in 45 min (17–0–0 in F) 1250 Yorkshire Surprise Major 1 Caroline Piercy 2 Helen L Scott 3 Barbara Busby 4 Kate Millar 5 Susan E Welch 6 Jack Hanlon 7 John R Welch 8 Darren R Moore (C) The bells of St Mary’s Church, Barnard Castle were rung this afternoon as part of “Ringing to Remember “-the Durham and Newcastle Association of Church Bellringers First World War ringing commemoration. On this day one hundred years ago a bellringer from this tower was killed in action. We rang to celebrate his life and the ultimate sacrifice he made. Private Stanley Willis Wilkinson.

Darren Moore,Caroline Piercy, Helen Scott, John Welch, Barbara Busby, Susan Welch, Jack Hanlon, Kate Millar

Page 30 D&N Times

Private Stanley William Wilkinson (contd)

Newcastle Cathedral Tuesday, 24 October 2017 in 53 mins (17–0–16) 1264 Plain Bob Major 1 J Michael Procter 2 David Hamby 3 Julie Bell 4 Stephen B Bell 5 Richard Grainger 6 William Davidson 7 Edmund P Crowdy 8 Howard E J Smith (C) The bells of this Cathedral Church of St. Nicholas were rung today as part of “Ringing to Remember” – the Durham & New- castle Association of Church Bellringers First World War ringing commemoration. On this day one hundred years ago a bellringer from the Church of St. Mary at Barnard Castle was killed. We rang to celebrate his life and the ultimate sacrifice that he made. Private Stanley Willis Wilkinson.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them.

Page 31 D&N Times

Corporal Reginald Samuel Eaton (15 November 1917) Corporal Reginald Samuel Eaton, Jesmond, Durham & Newcastle. Died 15/11/1917 age 22. East Yorkshire Regiment 4th Bn. Service No.31003. Commemorated at Tyne Cot Memorial, Belgium, Panel 47 to 48 and 163A.

Corporal Eaton's entry on the Central Council Roll of Honour, held at St Paul’s Cathedral

Reginald Eaton was born in 1895 in Heaton. He was the son of Elizabeth Mercy Eaton of 41, Forsyth Road, West Jesmond and the late Samuel Eaton. Reginald was employed as a shipping clerk. After enlisting in Newcastle upon Tyne he embarked for France on 7 September 1917 with the East Yorkshire Regiment, 4th Bn., service No. 31003. He died on 15 November 1917 aged 22. Reginald is commemorated at the Tyne Cot memorial in Belgium on panel 47 – 48 & 163A, on the bellringers Roll of Honour at St Paul's Cathedral in London, in Jesmond at the Church of St. George where he rang and on the bellringers memorial plaque in Newcastle Cathedral.

Ringing took place to remember Corporal Eaton:

Newcastle Cathedral Wednesday, 15 November 2017 in 51mins (17–0–16) 1344 Plain Bob Major 1 Monica Menis 2 Gordon Rothwell 3 David Hamby 4 Christine Richardson 5 J Michael Procter 6 Richard Grainger 7 Stephen B Bell (C) 8 Howard E J Smith The bells of this Cathedral were rung today as part of “Ringing to Remember” – the Durham & Newcastle Association of Church Bellringers - First World War ringing commemoration. On this day one hundred years ago a bellringer from Jesmond was killed. We rang to celebrate his life and the ultimate sacrifice that he made. Corporal Reginald Samuel Eaton.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them.

Page 32 D&N Times

Rifleman John Tom Hogg (30 November 1917)

Rifleman John Tom Hogg, North Shields, Durham & Newcastle. Died 30/11/1917 age 33. London Regiment (Queen's Westminster Rifles) 1st/16th Bn. Service No.555172. Commemorated at Cam- brai Memorial, Louverval, France, Panel 12.

The Hogg brothers' entry on the Central Council Roll of Honour, held at St Paul’s Cathedral

John was the son of Robert and Elizabeth Ann Hogg (née Coulson). He was born in the fourth quarter of 1884 in North Shields. John, who worked as a shop assistant, married Ethel Muriel Crosby of 93 Mowbray Road, South Shields on 10 August 1914 at Christ Church, North Shields. Together they had a Son, John C. Hogg, born in 1917. Whilst living at 17, Widdrington Terrace, John joined the 1st. / 16th. Bn. Queens Westminster Rifles, service No. 555172. He was killed in action on 30 November 1917 aged 33. He is remembered on the Cambrai Memorial, Louveral, France, panel 12 and on the memorial in Newcastle Cathedral. John's brother, Second Lieutenant Robert Morrison Hogg, Durham Light Infantry, also a bellringer, died on 1 April 1918, while a prisoner of war, and is buried in Cologne Southern Cemetery, Germany.

Ringing took place to remember John Hogg:

Durham & Newcastle Diocesan Association North Shields, Tyne and Wear Christ Church Thursday, 30 November 2017 in 0h 45 (7) 1272 Plain Bob Minor 1 Alan Barber (C) 2 Karen Dickinson 3 James Scott 4 Darren Gardner 5 Michael Scott 6 Michael Hewitt On the centenary of the death of Rifleman John Tom Hogg who is commemorated on the Cambrai Memorial, Louveval. He was a ringer at this tower.

Page 33 D&N Times

Rifleman John Thomas Hogg ( contd )

Newcastle Cathedral Thursday, 30 November 2017 in 50 mins 1440 Plain Bob Minor Composed by comp. 44 singles 1 J Michael Procter 2 Barbara Davies 3 Barbara Wheeler 4 Howard E J Smith (C) 5 Richard Grainger 6 Stephen B Bell The bells of this Cathedral Church of St. Nicholas were rung today as part of “Ringing to Remember” – the Durham & New- castle Association of Church Bellringers First World War ringing commemoration. On this day one hundred years ago a bellringer from Christ Church at North Shields was killed. We rang to celebrate his life and the ultimate sacrifice that he made. Rifleman John Tom Hogg.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them. Private George Hindmarsh Johnson (30 December 1917) Private George Hindmarsh Johnson, Allendale, Durham & Newcastle. Died 30/12/1917 age 19. Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders 1st/5th Bn. Service No.S/20419. Commemorated at Chatby Memorial, Egypt.

Private Johnson's entry on the Central Council Roll of Honour, held at St Paul’s Cathedral

George was the son of Jane Ann Johnson of Glen View House, Allendale, Northumberland, and the late George Johnson. George was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA. Jane returned to England following the death of her husband, bringing her two sons back with her. At the time of the 1911 census George was working as a grocer’s assistant. Private George Hindmarsh Johnson and Airman 1st Class Harold Edward Ladd (a ringer from Cowden, Kent) were aboard HMT Aragon, which, in early December 1917, left Marseille to sail for Egypt. She took about 2,200 troops to reinforce the Egyptian Expeditionary Force in the Palestine Campaign against the Ottoman Empire, plus about 150 military officers, 160 VADs (Voluntary Aid Detachment) and about 2,500 bags of Christmas mail. She and another transport, the Nile, sailed in convoy with an escort of destroyers. On 23 December 1917, they reached Windy Bay, Malta, where the two transports stayed at anchor for four or five days. There they celebrated Christmas, and according

Page 34 D&N Times

Private George Hindmarsh Johnson ( contd)

to one VAD, those aboard Aragon had a "top hole" time. Aragon and Nile then continued to Egypt with a fresh escort: the Acheron-class destroyer, HMS Attack, plus two Imperial Japanese Navy destroyers. The convoy weathered a gale, and off the Egyptian coast at daybreak on Sunday 30 December 1917 it divided. The two Japanese destroyers escorted Nile to Port Said, while Attack escorted Aragon to Alexandria. On approach to the port, Attack zig-zagged ahead to search the channel for mines, while Aragon waited in Alexandria Roads.

The armed trawler, HMT Points Castle, approached Aragon flying the international flag signal "Follow me". The troop ship did so, until Attack returned and signalled "You have no right to take orders from a trawler". The destroyer intercepted Points Castle and then ordered Aragon to return to sea. The troop ship obeyed and turned back to sea. The most senior of Aragon's officers to survive what followed tried to make sense of the confusion: "The only explanation that the writer can put forward is that the commander of the Attack had a warning of mines in the channel, causing him to order Aragon to disregard Points Castle's "Follow me". Evidently the enemy laid mines at the appropriate time in the knowledge that the ship would be kept out and thus present a target for torpedo attack."

Aragon and Attack were in Alexandria Roads about 8 to 10 miles outside the port, awaiting permission to enter, when, at about 1100 hours, the German Type UC II submarine, SM UC-34, torpedoed Aragon, hitting her port side aft and causing extensive damage in her almost empty number 4 hold. Aragon's deck officer of the watch, Lieut. J.F.A. Thompson, stated that she then listed to starboard. The destroyer, HMS Attack, dashed to her rescue as she sank quickly, as well as every avail- able ship within reach. Many of the men rescued and taken onto the HMS Attack had just stripped their oil drenched clothes from their bodies and laid on the deck, when she too was torpedoed by the same submarine, almost blowing her in two. 610 of the passengers on board the HMS Aragon were lost at sea, including Private Johnson and Airman 1st Class Ladd.

Airman 1st Class Harold Edward Ladd, Cowden, Kent. Died 30/12/1917 age 27. Royal Flying Corps. Service No.22942. Commemorated at Chatby Memorial, Egypt. Baptised 27/04/1890 at Wye, Kent. One of five children, including his well-known ringing brother, Ernest (Ernie) James Ladd. Son of Walter James Ladd and Ann Ladd of 56 West Street, East Grinstead, Sussex. At the time of the 1911 census he was working as a carpenter.

Ringing took place to remember Private Johnson:

Durham & Newcastle Diocesan Association Allendale, Northumberland St Cuthbert Saturday, 30 December 2017 in 46 minutes (10–0–9 in G) 1260 Bob Doubles Bob Doubles with 7,6,8 covering 1 Elizabeth Beardsley 2 Joan Lumley 3 Cecilia Harris

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Private George Hindmarsh Johnson ( contd)

4 Rosalind Cowsill 5 Roger Cowsill (C) 6 Shirley Brown 7 Milton Armstrong 8 Jim Brown To commemorate the life of Private George Hindmarsh Johnson (1898 - 1917) 1st/5th Bn. Argyll and Sutherland Highland- ers, ringer at this tower, who was drowned at sea on H T 'Aragon' on 30th December 1917. Rung as part of Ringing to Re- member, the D & N Association First World War Ringing Commemoration.

Newcastle Cathedral Saturday, 30 December 2017 1264 Plain Bob Major Composed by A.M.Barber 1 Barbara Davies 2 David Hamby 3 Alan M Barber (C) 4 Christine Richardson 5 Philip N Green 6 Stephen E Hamby 7 Stephen B Bell 8 Howard E J Smith The bells of this Cathedral Church of St. Nicholas were rung today as part of “Ringing to Remember” – the Durham & New- castle Association of Church Bellringers First World War ringing commemoration. On this day one hundred years ago a bellringer from the Church of St. Cuthbert at Allendale was killed. We ring to celebrate his life and the ultimate sacrifice that he made. Private George Hindmarsh Johnson.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them.

Page 36 D&N Times

Pioneer William Wrightson (21 March 1918) Pioneer William Wrightson, Wylam on Tyne, Durham & Newcastle. Died 21/03/1918 age 20. Royal En- gineers "E" Special Coy. Service No.214409. Commemorated at Pozieres Memorial, France, Panel 10 to 13.

William Wrightson's entry on the Central Council Roll of Honour, held at St Paul’s Cathedral

The research below is kindly provided by Helena Bates. Many thanks for this rich insight into William's life.

William was born in 1898 the first child of Robert William Wrightson of Sunderland who worked as a railway company clerk and his wife Isabella Brown Waugh, a local girl from Wylam Wood cottages. The couple had married the previous year and moved into 5 Burgoyne Terrace, Wylam to share the house tenanted by her grandfather, Michael Varty who was still an active miner at 70, but who had recently become a widower.

By the 1911 census the family were still living at Burgoyne Terrace, but had increased to eight now with three sons William 13, John 11, and Robert 4 and two daughters Lilian 9 and Jane 7, together with grandfather Michael 80 and the parents.

The 1911 census does not record any occupation for William at 13 and the details of his army records and employment when he enlisted have not been traced. However, we know he became a Pioneer in a special company within the Royal Engineers. By chance a brief item in the Hexham Courant 1st December 1917 mentions 'Pioneer William Wrightson of Burgoyne Ter- race is home for a few days leave. We also know that William was a bell-ringer at St. Oswin’s Church, Wylam. He fought at Vimy Ridge and now at Arras. He sees to the gas tanks and one hopes his mixture is more deadly than Keatings. Having celebrated his 20th birthday in the trenches we hope he may celebrate his 21st in the dear homeland.’

Sadly William Wrightson never achieved his 21st birthday; he was killed in action on 21st March 1918. The Hexham Courant reported it on 25th May 1918 under ‘Wounded & Missing’ Pioneer William Wrightson son of Mr. & Mrs. Wrightson, Bur- goyne Terrace, Wylam.

The Special Companies Royal Engineers The Special Companies at the start of the war No Special Companies existed in 1914. They were a war time invention. The Great War was the first in which chemical weapons were deployed. There was great moral shock and outrage at the first use of Chlorine, released by the Germans against defenceless French troops in the Ypres Salient. The Special Companies of the Royal Engineers were formed to develop the British response. By 1918, gas was used both offensively and defensively, delivered by a range of sophisticated techniques.

The first Special Companies are formed As early as 3 May 1915 the British Secretary of State for War, Lord Kitchener, authorised the preparation of measures to re- taliate against the German use of poison gas. Experimental research work was carried out at Porton, and a laboratory estab- lished at Helfaut, near St Omer in France. The Kestner-Kellner Alkali Company, being the only firm in Britain capable of manufacturing Chlorine gases in quantity, supervised trials with the final large-scale one taking place at Runcorn on 4 June.

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Private William Wrightson ( contd )

The method - as used by the Germans - was to form a continous cloud by discharging compressed gas from cylinders to the atmosphere, and allowing the wind to move it over the enemy positions.

Special Companies of technically skilled men, under Major C.H. Foulkes of the Royal Engineers, were formed with a Depot at Helfaut, to deal with the new weapon. Nos 186 and 187 Special Companies were formed first, in July 1915, followed by 188 and 189 Companies in August. All of the men were given the rank of Chemist Corporal. On 4 September 1915 the first two Companies, totalling 34 Sections of 28 men, were assigned to First Army for forthcoming operations.

The Special Brigade is formed Despite the limited results achieved by the cloud gas discharge at Loos, it was believed sufficiently successful to warrant further development. One of the first acts of Sir Douglas Haig on his appointment as Commander-in-Chief was to request that the War Office expand the four Special Companies of the RE into a more substantial force, viz. • Four Special Battalions, each of four Companies, to handle gas discharge from cylinders and smoke from candles; • Four Special Companies to handle gas shells fired from 4-inch Stokes mortars. Each Company to have 48 such weapons; • Four Special Sections to handle flame projectors (throwers); • plus a Headquarters and Depot, making all all an establishment of 208 officers and 5306 men. This request was approved and the Brigade built up by adding volunteers from units already in France to the four original Companies. Later, drafts from England would join. The force was designated the Special Brigade. It was placed under the command of Col. C.Foulkes, RE, who was appointed Assistant Director of Gas Services; he reported to Brigadier-General H.Thuillier, RE, Director of Gas Services. Lt-Col. S.Cummins, RAMC acted as Director of Anti-Gas Measures.

By the end of May 1916, No 1 Special Battalion and No 2 (less a Company) were allocated to Fourth Army; No 3 (less a Com- pany) to Second Army; No 4 (also less a Company) to Third Army. No 4A Battalion was provisionally formed from the three detached Companies, and was attached to First Army. No 5 Battalion was the Stokes mortar unit, and had 3 Companies attached to Fourth Army and 1 to Third Army. The Flame Projector Sections arrived in France 26 June 1916. Special units continued to be developed through the rest of the war.

Ringing took place to remember William Wrightson:

Durham & Newcastle Diocesan Association Wylam on Tyne, Northumberland St Oswin Wednesday, 21 March 2018 in 0:46 (22–0–20 in E) 1260 Plain Bob Doubles Composed by Trad. 1 Graham Wright 2 Joel A Cairns* 3 Barbara Sutton

Page 38 D&N Times

Pioneer William Wrightson ( contd ) 4 Kevin Webster 5 Andrew J Cairns (C) 6 David L Henderson * Age 12 Rung half-muffled in memory of Pioneer William Wrightson, "E" Special Company, Royal Engineers, who died this day a century ago and is commemorated on the Pozières Memorial in the Somme. He was a St. Oswin's ringer and this quarter was rung by a Wylam band. William Wrightson, we have remembered you.

Wylam band, front left to back right.

Newcastle Cathedral The bells of this Cathedral Church of St. Nicholas were rung today as Wednesday, 21 March 2018 in 44mins part of “Ringing to Remember” – the Durham & Newcastle Associa- 1280 Plain Bob Major tion of Church Bellringers First World War ringing commemoration. 1 Barbara Wheeler On this day one hundred years ago a bellringer from Wylam on Tyne 2 Elizabeth Thompson was killed. We rang to celebrate his life and the ultimate sacrifice that 3 Julie Bell he made. 4 Sonia Thompson Pioneer William Wrightson. 5 Richard M Grainger 6 J Michael Procter They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: 7 Stephen B Bell Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. 8 Howard E J Smith (C) At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them.

Volume 1 Issue 2 Page 39

2018 D&N Calendar

(Further details can be found at the Association Webpages)

Month Date Event

June 26th Central & Southern District Advanced 10/12 Stockton The D&N Times July Central District Quarter Peal Month 1st Young Ringers Group, St John, Newcastle 4th 8 Bell Practice, SS James and Basil, Fenham WWW DANDN ORG 7th Northern District Mtg, Bamburgh and Embleton . . 14th Central District Meeting 15th Central District Advanced 8 Bell Practice COMMENTS, 18th Mid Week Guild Trip to Cumbria QUESTIONS OR 21st Ringing Ramble to Hartlepool

NEWS? August 4th Northern District Practice, Whitley Bay 19th Central District Advanced 8 Bell Practice Contact the Editorial Secretary, Andrew Frost September 1st Northern District Meeting, Ovingham Email:[email protected] 2nd Ringing to Remember, Morpeth 2nd Young Ringers Group, Brancepeth 10th Ringing to Remember, Hexham 16th Central District Advanced 8 Bell Practice 19th Mid Week Guild, Sunderland (tbc) 25th 10/12 Bell Practice, Stockton on Tees

October 3rd Ringing to Remember, Jesmond 6th Northern District Quarter Peal Day 9th Ringing to Remember, Bishop Auckland 13th Central District Meeting 17th Mid Week Guild, Hexham and Ovingham (tbc) 20th Association Annual Dinner, Durham Masonic Hall 21st Central District Advanced 8 Bell Practice

November 3rd ND Annual Meeting, Newcastle Cathedral 4th Young Ringers Group, St Oswalds Hartlepool 6th Ringing to Remember, Bishop Auckland 10th Central District Meeting 18th Central District Advanced 8 Bell Practice 21st Mid Week Guild, St Oswald and St Nicholas, Durham

December 1st Northern District Christmas Social, Newburn

Diary and Events as published on D&N web site on 20th June 2018

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