Fran Watkins

Guild Secretary & Data Protection Officer – Fran Watkins

I was taught to handle a bell just before my 14th birthday and was elected a member of the HDGB in 1984. Years later, I still love bellringing and I am honoured to serve as Guild Secretary.

I enjoy ringing of all kinds, from the occasional peal to the great joy to be found in ringing well-struck rounds or call-changes for a wedding or special service.

Ringing with other enthusiastic ringers gives me confidence for the future, when we come together on days such as the Guild Competition Day, or the Annual Festival we generate good-feeling and enthusiasm to take back to our own towers.  I know my fellow officers have many ideas and plans to help us all with recruitment and learning for the future.

I believe the Guild is its members and I’m a great believer in communication, we know how much better things are when we talk to each other and work with each other.  We may often have different ways of going about things, but we share a love of bellringing, and ultimately we all want ringing to thrive.  However, I am concerned that we may not always reach all members of the Guild, so I’d like to encourage everyone to share news, and contact me at any time with any thoughts or ideas.

I hope to meet and talk with you soon.

Fran Watkins, May 2024