Bellringing Today
A Bell ringer is what one ringer calls another ringer, whilst a Campanologist is what someone who does not ring bells calls a bell ringer (incorrectly since campanology refers to the study of bells, not the ringing of them). Ringing bells full circle devolved from the late 1500s onwards, and it is a uniquely English tradition which, although spread in small doses to other English speaking countries, remains firmly established in England where over 5000 towers have five or more bells for change ringing.
New Ringers
Despite the large number of towers capable of supporting change ringing. And over 25,000 ringers across the country, there is an urgent need to recruit more ringers. Many towers are silent now due to lack of ringers, and it is the goal of ringers that all towers should ring out for the millennium.
Bell ringing is sociable, good fun and of service to the Church. Bell ringers from all a local towers meet frequently in both ringing and social activity. A good spirit of Christian Fellowship exists,and everyone is made to feel welcome. This is especially so when visiting other towns and villages across the country, when a visit to a local band will immediately bring a welcome and an introduction to the local scene.
Bell ringing requires a basic ability to be able to pull and catch a rope, with a surprisingly little physical effort. Other than that all one needs is enthusiasm, and commitment to a eventually ringers for Sunday services. Which is the objective of every bell ringer.
It takes a few weeks to become a novice bellringer who can join up with the team in ringing at rounds, and call changes. It can take a few months or even years to develop into a change/ method ringer, depending on the speed which one wants to go, and how quick a learner you are. Your presence is urgently required, and a welcome awaits you at your local Tower if you would like to become a ringer.
- At St Peters
- Practice night Thursday 7:30pm to 9:15pm
- Sunday 09:45am to 10:15am or 10:30 to 11:00am and 5:30pm to 6:30pm
Just call in and see us, or call Richard.
If you live elsewhere and would like a list of towers where bellringers are needed, call Richard Entwistle 01234 360095
