The Guild's Inter-Shires Striking Competition took place at Cherington on 19th November. Peter Kenealy ensured that the Church and the Village Hall were opened up in good time before going to ring for a wedding at Whichford.
The competition was run on the traditional Four Shires rules, ie the rise, method and fall were all judged.
The five judges, Alan Hartley for Worcestershire, David Leafe for Warwickshire, Ian Unsworth Gloucestershire, Ken Davenport for Oxfordshire and Bill Nash for the Guild, tried out the bells and then took their seats in the Vestry.
The draw took place and Warwick (for Warks) went first. They set a high standard and were followed by some good ringing from Eckington (for Worcs). Dursley (for Glos) were looking good until the treble ringer experienced rope trouble, which put them out of contention. Finally it was the turn of Drayton St Leonard (for Oxon) and they rang very well.
The judges placed Oxfordshire first and Warwickshire second. No third or fourth places were given following the Guild's normal custom in this event.
The President presented the trophy to Hilarie Rogers, captain of the winning band.
All present expressed their opinion that it was worthwhile starting the competition again after a break of some years.
Many thanks are due to members who came to help, in particular Jackie Hands who brought food and poured the tea; likewise Stuart and Michael Cummings, Andrew Gunn, Peter Kenealy, Allen Turner and Peter Quinn.
John Nicholls and Andrew Gunn