Peter Humphreys, the Wirral Branch Secretary has been Mauritus since the end of 1997. He has been responsible for the Branch secretarial duties for most of the year. I would like to thank him for his enthusiasm, energy and effort which he puts into the Branch on our behalf.
All the events planned for the year were completed, some more successfully than others, those people that supported these, thoroughly enjoyed themselves.
The 6-bell striking competition, changed at short notice from the published venue to Bidston, was won once again by Port Sunlight. This was the first year that the Alex Martin Shield had been presented and was gratefully received by Port Sunlight, who went on to represent the Branch in the guild competition at Hartford. Here they were placed third in the competition.
The standard of ringing, I am reliably informed, has continued to maintain the standards set in past years. The encouragement and support given at the ‘summer school’ organised in August, has also helped to set the seeds for the future. I am sure at this point Peter would have liked to thank all those who gave their time and support.
During ‘Quarter Peal Week’ a total of nine were reported. Notable achievements were made by:
Other notable events this year must include, the re-establishment of ringing at Eastham and the work carried out on the bells at Burton. Once again, Tommy Morgan must be thanked for his valiant efforts. New bushes, re-sighting of the garter hole in the wheel of the treble, two half bobbin rope leads, and the treble much easier to ring, will benefit the ringers, who are now looking to recruit for the future.
What has now become an annual event, the Christmas Dinner at Port Sunlight, rounded the year off in a very pleasant way.
Wirral Branch Assistant Secretary – David Hocker