LDG 6 BELL STRIKING CONTEST

Method competition at Folkingham:

Congratulations to Washingborough for becoming the runners up in the 6-bell striking competition only missing the top spot by half a point (the minimum difference), losing to Bourne for the John Freeman Cup.

For anyone wishing to admire the runners up John Bluff Plaque, it is now on display in Washingborough Ringing Room.

Rounds and call changes at Silk Willoughby:

Nettleham came a credible 4th with only a few points separating the teams.

HOME WIN FOR CENTRAL BRANCH IN 8 BELL BRANCH STRIKING COMPETITION

Emerging from the Covid pandemic and hot on the heels of a second place in the tower 6 bell striking competition, after a delay of two years waiting to host the annual competition, Central Branch who fielded two teams saw themselves placed first and third sandwiching West Lindsey, the defending holders who previously won on home soil in 2020. Eastern Branch and Southern Branch came 4th and 5th respectively, on a sunny afternoon at St John the Evangelist, Washingborough.

The judges Neil and Dinah Donovan travelled in good October weather from Beverley to oversee the competition – safely secreted in the car park of the splendid Washingborough Hall Hotel next to the church. Ringing of a high standard was commented on by the judges who completed their judging in failing light, wearing head torches – the start time needing to be put back to accommodate some of the teams.

A rolling sandwich buffet was organised by Sue Waterfall who, along with her myriad of helpers filled many an empty stomach and plied them with tea and coffee during the ringing – in the church.

The results were proceeded by an interesting brief resume of previously judging striking competitions by Neil Donovan and there was no dissent or calls for a recount when the results were announced!

1st - CENTRAL BRANCH (Vulcans)

2nd - WEST LINDSEY BRANCH

3rd - CENTRAL BRANCH (Victors)

4th - EASTERN BRANCH

5th - SOUTHERN BRANCH

Neil did think there was a chance for revenge when judging. Why? Because at their own Contest in Yorkshire, a visiting Lincolnshire Judge came to judge. By all accounts, Neil thought his team had won but the Lincolnshire Judge said he judged by the Lincolnshire rules and their team came second! So, beware who you think comes first may come second!

Keith Butter President Central Branch

During the last ring (West Lindsey branch) so many of the Central Branch ringers were spied outside the porch, listening acutely to every change. They were very grateful that whatever rules were used, Central branch won! All down to the Ringing Master and his encouragement to enter 2 teams of ringers and well deserved to receive the Henry Law James shield on behalf of the Central Branch, Vulcans. Thank you, Graham!