SOUTH NOTTS DISTRICT REPORT 2008

2008 saw the South Notts District holding it's usual monthly meetings, both within the District & out of the area. We have had successful out-of-district meetings, visiting Wymeswold and Long Clawson, with a further such meeting planned for Lockington in April.  Our current membership stands at 68 and attendance at District meetings ranged in numbers from 9 to 27, plus a few visitors from other towers.

One notable District meeting was held in October, with the first ring on the bells at St Francis, Clifton.  Five of the six bells had just been hung, and although the Tower was in an unfinished state, ringers enjoyed a first go on the bells.  We look forward to a return visit to ring all six and see the completed work.

The District heat for the Crawford Cup was held at Willoughby on the Wolds, with Clifton being the winners.  They went forward to the final, which was this year held within our District at Barton in Fabis.  This was held on a sunny summer afternoon (yes we did have some) on 10th May, when competitors were able to listen to some fine ringing from the other teams, while enjoying the beautiful leafy surroundings of St George's Church.  Six teams took part and the eventual winners were St Mary the Virgin, Nottingham, second St John the Baptist, Beeston and third All Saint's, Sutton on Trent.  Tea was then enjoyed in the village hall, and I would like to thank all who helped by baking cakes and preparing sandwiches.  Also, special thanks to Mary Stephens and Peter Hawcock who did so much preparation for and clearing up after the event.

There was a large turnout of members from the District at the Guild AGM in Southwell on May 17th and the District Officers thank members for their support at this meeting.

The district outing on the 7th of June was a coach trip to York organized by John Cooper.  It was very well attended, attracting a coach-full of ringers and day-trippers.  Six towers were grabbed, including two 10’s: St. Giles (on the way at Pontefract) and St. Wilfrids, York.  The remaining towers comprised three 8’s and a 6 and were all in, or close to, York:  St. Martin-le-Grand, All Saints (North Street), St. Olaves and All Saints (Huntington, to the north of York).  Many thanks to John Cooper for again arranging both the outing and the coach transport.

Finally, thanks to all Incumbents, Tower Contacts and Tower Captains for making their bells available for District Meetings and for all the members who support these meetings and ringing throughout the District.

Annette Boden
Last updated : 18 July 2009