The Southern District kicked off 2009 with ringing at Stanton by Dale, West Hallam and Ilkeston with a fine tea and service before the ADM. A simple standard format for normal monthly ringing meetings was proposed. This involved starting with tea and cakes at the host tower then ringing from 7:00 to 9:00 and finishing with drinks in a local pub. This format was used twice during the year at Aston-on-Trent in June and at Repton in August.
The district striking contest was held at Sawley in March. Three teams entered the call changes with Netherseal going forward to the Arthur Ashby Cup final. Five teams entered the methods competition with Cathedral Wasps and Derby St Peters going forward to the Horsley Cup final. The standard of ringing was very good and a fine tea was provided by the local ringers. Unfortunately, many people left early and the evening ringing planned for Kegworth was cancelled.
In April, the now well established annual quiz was held once again in Ockbrook. This social event continues to be well supported and very enjoyable but will anyone ever beat St Peters? The Strictly Come Ringing competition was held at Brailsford in July. The four teams formed “at random” were able to enjoy the good weather whilst marking each other’s efforts. In November, the monthly ringing meeting had a small excursion in to the Central District to ring at Duffield and the year was finished off in style with ringing, carols, mulled wine and mince pies in Ticknall.
During the year the district has welcomed 4 new members and one non-resident member. Many quarter peals have been rung including several at Breaston, which is enjoying a resurgence of interest and first quarter peals for Francis Gilbert and Jo Ragsdell from St Peters. Congratulations to them. In preparation for the installation of remodelled bells at Sandiacre in 2010, training of a new band began during this summer. We look forward to welcoming these new members to the Association next year.
Many thanks go to all the towers who have hosted events and provided excellent food during the course of the year and to the committee members who have helped organise the events. Special thanks go to Alec Humphrey who is standing down as district ringing master after seven years. Alec’s tireless work over the years has provided a wonderful opportunity for many of us to ring lots of quarter peals, learn new methods and ring at new towers. He has been a great asset to the Association and we are very grateful for all his efforts over the years.