NUA 1970 - Manchester

RW 3077 17/041/1970 p288 NORTHERN UNIVERSITIES MEETING After nearly 18 months during which it was feared that the Northern Universities grouping had died, a revival meeting was held around Manchester on March 7. The event, organised by the Manchester U.G., was arranged to coincide with their dinner to ensure adequate support. The attempt was successful, for seven other University societies were represented. Good wishes were sent from Keele (unable to attend). Ringing started at Marple with Manchester in command, then Leeds took control for Hazel Grove and St. George’s, Stockport. Numbers swelled after lunch and Sheffield had to do some skilful manoeuvring to ensure everyone had a ring in the small ringing chamber(s) of Hyde. Even St. Michael’s, Ashton-underLyne, was packed to capacity, and provided a difficult task of supervision for Nottingham. At St. Peter’s, Ashton, where Durham took command, there was a sizable queue on the stairs, but the peak was reached at Manchester Cathedral, where the ropes were lost in a welter of student ringers “standing in” rather than “sitting in.” The crush was augmented by a disappointed peal band from the Town Hall; however, with Lancaster in charge everyone had at least one ring. An informal discussion between the masters followed concerning the reorganisation of the Northern Universities, which is really an informal society. It was agreed that an attempt be made to arrange two meetings in advance on regular dates. On each occasion the host society should be responsible for the organisation during the day and for a social evening. It was arranged for Liverpool to be host in October, and for Durham in March, 1971. Durham offered to provide a trophy for a striking competition, details of which will be discussed at the next meeting. Thanks to everyone for travelling their various distances to support the event. M. C. W. S.