I would to thank everyone who took park in ringing over the past couple of weeks to mark the death and state funeral of HM Queen Elizabeth II. I know your efforts were greatly appreciated across the county. Particular thanks go to steeplekeepers and their assistants for putting muffles on, off, on, off... and in several cases showing great ingenuity with carpet and tyres!

On a personal note, I was diagnosed with a torn retina in my left eye late on Wednesday afternoon and within 24 hours I had had it repaired. Who says the NHS has long waiting lists! Unfortunately I am unlikely to be on the end of a bell rope much before Christmas but hope to continue traveling around the county to meet as many of you as possible as soon as I'm allowed to drive again.

Best wishes to you all

 Gareth Higgs (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.)