I have had my ear bent by a few professional ear-benders recently about how they might get their voices and opinions heard about the general running of the pub they have invested in, or just use on a daily or weekly basis.
Most of the actual shareholders are quite happy to forego a percentage of their dividends next year, so long as vital work - or work which they see as vital - is carried out in The Bell, as promised in the general gist of the launch, over a year ago.
The state of the toilets comes up quite regularly - these being the obvious areas where remedial action is most required, and nobody can understand why almost nothing has been done about it, despite a profitable first year.
One shareholder asked me if he should attend a board meeting in order to air his views, and everyone said - quite rightly - that he was not eligible to attend any Board meetings, not being on the Board.
I asked him when was the last time he looked at this forum - it being the only immediate voice and connection with his other 535 share-holders, and he said 'once', and once only.
Some action needs to be taken by the shareholders and general customers themselves, and this need only be in the form of participation on THIS forum. The Board would - I am sure - be genuinely grateful for your input.
I know that the Board are slightly dismayed at the lack of participation here, but if you REALLY want your views to be seen and aired about issues regarding The Bell, right here is the place to do it.
Start using this facility before it becomes obsolete, otherwise stop bending my ear about the toilets when I am trying to have a peaceful pint.