Holding an event that requires at least a certain amount of milling about outdoors, in the UK, in April is always at the mercy of the weather. This year, Spring Meeting day dawned cools first thing, with the promise of clearing later, which it duly did.

The Guild 6 bell striking contest contest was held in 2 parts, with the method ringing at Great Addington, with the call change bands at Twywell. Seems last years 21 entries might not have been a one off, with 10 method bands and 9 call change bands entering. Helen Allton & Alistair Donaldson again teamed up to supervise play at Twywell, while Cathy Dixon & John Beresford did that same at Great Addington.

Everyone then collected at Islip village hall for the tea, to be followed by the results and a short business meeting.

The results were given for the Method ringing. Garry & Sue Mason had judged, and Garry gave the comments on each team and their scores on behalf of them both.

Simon Dixon had judged the call changes, with Miles Baker accompanying in his first experience on the other side of the judging table. Simon gave comments for each team before the results were given.

The trophies were presented, with Jim Bence collecting the Weaver Shield on behalf of the Cathedral (their first win) while Chris Bulleid collected the Centenary trophy on behalf of Pattishall, who retain that for another year.

Alistair Donaldson with Garry Mason & Jim Bence	Alistair Donaldson with Simon Dixon & Chris Bulleid

After the remainder of the meeting, involving a 100 club draw and the raffle, there was evening ringing next door at Islip for a short time.

Thanks must go to the towers for the use of their bells, the judges for their kind remarks and their skill at judging, and to Thrapston branch for the fine tea.

Next year's contest is on 11th April to be held in the Rutland branch.