https://cccbr.org.uk/2021/04/09/prince-philip-duke-of-edinburgh/

Dear All, following the announcement by the palace that HRH Prince Philip has died there are clearly a number of questions about how ringers should mark this moment whilst staying within the restrictions of the pandemic.

Whilst we await guidance from the Central Council you might consider if Tolling of the Tenor would be possible today. For safety reasons there should never be a ringer ringing alone, but if two members of a family/bubble were to be available then this would meet safety guidelines, be within covid restrictions and be appropriate on such a day of national significance. I would encourage you to seek approval of this plan from the incumbent of your particular church.

I will circulate more information on guideline and restrictions as they become available.

James

Dear friends,
Whilst there is currently no change in the rules to celebrate, the end of restrictions is in sight!

As I am sure you know, from 17th May a version of the “rule of six” will be recommended for indoor activities. This is likely to allow some ringing to recommence. We are still awaiting clarification about social distancing rules that will apply and for how long we will be allowed to ring. In addition this stage of the restart is likely to involve individual tower’s own risk assessments in consultation with their incumbent. From 21st June a full resumption of ringing activities is currently expected.

As part of preparations for this return, I have been in touch with as many tower captains as I could reach in the branch. I am happy to report that the practices that were regularly being held prior to Covid are feeling confident that they have the experienced ringers available to be able to meet your needs as you regain your confidence.

I would love to hear from you, particularly if you have any misgivings about restarting so that support can be arranged. This link will allow you to tell me what you think about barriers to restarting https://forms.gle/kkuxxfpYTZmFjZmC8

James

Helen Allton shared this podcast on the Guild Facebook page. It is well worth clicking the link and listening to the podcast. I would be interesting to hear your thoughts…

https://funwithbells.com/15-tips-to-improve-your-striking/

James

Please could I ask that all who are planning to attend the first friday practice at Castor this month, to please send me a message confirming that you will be coming  ?

If we are short – let’s find out now!  And if we are not I can stop worrying!!

James

Have you wondered about making the leap into surprise ringing with Cambridge Minor?

Have you rung Cambridge but need more opportunity to crack it?

Have you tried to ring it but it didn’t go well?

If you recognise yourself in any of these descriptions then the branch Cambridge workshops are for you. There will be two workshops, one theory/learning at my home, the second practical at a tower.

If you are interested please drop me an email and we can arrange a date to meet that suits the group.

Finally, if you are not sure if you are at the right stage then your tower captain should be able to advise you, or email me to discuss.

James

Dear Members,

Prior to discussions at the upcoming Branch Committee Meeting – please could I ask for some feedback on Branch Activities:

In previous years we have run workshops on Striking and Ringing Up/Down.  If we were to put on some Workshops this year – what topics would you like to see covered?  (possible ideas: Bob Minor, Cambridge, Striking, Conducting, ?something else – do you have a better idea?)

The Castor once a month Branch Practice has recently struggled for support –  what do you like/dislike about this practice?  What sort of practice would you be interested in supporting? What stops you from coming?

I look forward to hearing from you,

James Thorpe