The practice is to be at Painswick (12 bells) near Stroud. Many of the practices this year will be in the Stroud area simply because it is the most central and there is a convenient Rail link for those of you using Public Transport. The ringing at Painswick will be mainly on the light 10 but there may be the opportunity to ring the 12 towards the end of the evening. Obviously the objective of the Contest is Striking so this is where are emphasis needs to be in our practices. However, in the early months we can afford to liven things up a little bit in terms of methods rung so it won't be nothing but Grandsire Triples! Also, if we continue to have similar numbers to recent practices, we may well do a fair bit of ringing on 10 just so we maximise "rope time" for all of you. It is my belief that one way of learning good striking on 8 is by ringing on 10 bells even if that ringing is Rounds & Call Changes, Plain Hunt or simple methods like Grandsire & Plain Bob.

If any of you have transport problems, don't be afraid to let me know as I might be able to help sort something out for you.

If all those who have expressed an interest in participating in the Youth Team this year turn up regularly, I am convinced we have the makings of a great team. Whatever happens though, I am sure we will all have a great time making and developing our friendships and enjoying some fantastic ringing in a really friendly and welcoming atmosphere. So please put this date in your diary and when we next meet I will have the arrangements for February & March firmed up.

For those of you new to the team please give some thought as to whether you would like some G&B Youth Team clothing (Polo Shirts, Fleeces, Hoodies etc). If you do want to buy something then please email Carole and I and we will see what we can do.

If there are any adults who want to come along to a practice to see what it is all about then please contact me in advance. You need to be aware though that the practices are for the Youth Team so your opportunities to actually ring during a Youth Team practice are very limited. (Also the standard of ringing produced by these youngsters can be excellent so be prepared to feel a little bit humbled!!!!)