Coronavirus (COVID-19) - A Further Update

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Published: Saturday, 28 March 2020 15:11

Since I last wrote, a little over ten days ago, life in our country has been turned on its head and is now unrecognisable.

In a televised address on Monday 23rd March the Prime Minister Boris Johnson made an unprecedented peacetime speech, which introduced further restrictions on freedom of movement to slow the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19).

A few days later and we now find that Coronavirus has impressed itself upon those at the top level of Government with Boris Johnson, Matt Hancock and Chris Whitty becoming symptomatic. His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales has also tested positive after experiencing mild symptoms.

This only serves to remind us of why social distancing is important and needs to be adhered to. The disease is ruthless and doesn't discriminate against who it infects.

Read more: Coronavirus (COVID-19) - A Further Update

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update - Suspension of SCACR Events

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Published: Tuesday, 17 March 2020 07:29

In my message on Saturday I said that the situation regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19) was evolving, and over the past twenty four hours fresh advice has been issued by the UK Government.

The latest advice, announced by Boris Johnson on Monday, seeks to introduce social distancing to help slow the spread of the virus - it is now believed that we are moving into the fast growth phase of the infection curve:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-on-social-distancing-and-for-vulnerable-people/guidance-on-social-distancing-for-everyone-in-the-uk-and-protecting-older-people-and-vulnerable-adults

On Monday evening I spoke with the trustees and officers of the Association to decide the best way in which we as an association can comply with the latest advice. Unanimous agreement was reached that we should suspend all Association events until 30th April. This suspension will be reviewed regularly and may possibly have to be extended dependant on the progression of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Read more: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update - Suspension of SCACR Events

Bellringing and Coronavirus (COVID-19)

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Published: Saturday, 14 March 2020 22:55

As you will be well aware the Coronavirus (COVID-19) is starting to impact upon our day to day lives.

Both the Central Council of Church Bell Ringers and the Church of England have issued advice to help mitigate against the risk posed, the message is simple and promotes good personal hygiene.

• CCCBR advice: https://cccbr.org.uk/2020/03/12/coronavirus-covid-19/
• Church of England: https://www.churchofengland.org/more/media-centre/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-churches

At this stage it is not necessary to suspend ringing, although the following precautions should be taken:

• Wash your hands with soap & water before ringing and wash them again afterwards - or use a high alcohol content hand sanitiser if soap & water not available.
• If you cough or sneeze 'Catch It, Bin It, Kill It'. Use disposable tissues, handkerchiefs act as a breeding ground for germs.
• Avoid touching your face unless you have washed your hands.
• DO NOT spit on your hands before ringing, this is a sure fire way to spread germs.
• If you are unfortunate enough to become ill, or have come into contact with a confirmed case of Coronavirus, please stay at home - don't come to a practice, service ringing or a district meeting.
• Follow NHS advice if you are ill or need to self-isolate

Read more: Bellringing and Coronavirus (COVID-19)

2020 Westley Award for Church Bell Maintenance

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Published: Friday, 06 March 2020 22:34

Ringers are all dependent on the bells that they ring. Towers and bells in good condition will usually make it easier for ringers to develop their skills and, in particular, help retain new recruits.

So have you or one of your band become involved in belfry maintenance relatively recently? If so, then the Westley Award for church bell maintenance is for you!

The Stewardship & Management Workgroup of the Central Council of Church Bell Ringers is launching the 2020 award for people who are newly involved in belfry maintenance, developing their own skills and those of others. We hope that every society, branch or district will submit at least nomination!

The award will be made at the September 2020 CCCBR annual conference to be held in Nottingham. The winner will receive £100 and a certificate.

Full details and an application form will be on the CCCBR website herehttps://cccbr.org.uk/about/workgroups/stewardship-and-management/westley-award-2020/

The closing date for nominations is noon on 31st May 2020.

Alison Hodge
CCCBR Stewardship & Management Workgroup Lead