St John The Baptist, Coltishall
Bell Ringers Association

As I write this I realise it will be in the October issue of the Marlpit, am I getting old, or did the summer really go that quickly? (don't answer that!). They do say that time goes much quicker as the years go by and I am beginning to believe it. So the first thing to report on as always is the wedding of Kristian Louise Howlett and Roy Johnnink at St John The Baptist Church on 27th July. It was a beautiful service and the church looked a picture with such an array of wonderful flowers. We wish them much happiness in their future together.

Many thanks to all those who came along to our open afternoon on 3rd August, especially as it started to rain, but visitors were not deterred, they still went up to the top of the tower and said they were very pleased that they had made the effort, it's not easy going round and round and up and up in a confined space, especially if you are not too keen on heights! On coming back down again they really enjoyed the tea and home made cakes. We had a table laid out with photographs of past times as we did last year, and a Mr Vernon Feltham brought along his wonderful album (many thanks Vernon) and there were people sitting round the table chatting and asking all sorts of questions the whole of the afternoon, so it made it all very worthwhile.

Many thanks must go to all the ladies who very kindly brought along cakes, and especially to Jean & Dennis Moore. While Dennis was up and down the tower steps with Tony showing people where to go etc., Jean was helping me behind the counter serving teas, and of course many thanks to Jean for her wonderful selection of cakes, especially the chocolate! We were all shattered by the end of the afternoon, but after two late donations, the grand total taken for the afternoon turned out to be £200.55 and a portion of this will go to help towards the new toilets for St John's. We all thought it had been very worth while. The other members of the band at the Monday evening practise, very kindly gave us a Thank You Card for all our hard work, which just rounded off the whole occasion on a very happy note, or should I say ring! Chat to you all again nearer Christmas!!!

Audrey Weston Secretary