News

News

'Ringing Together' is a weekly session at St Clement's for ringers who can handle a bell and are starting to develop the skills of ringing with other people. We have now been going for seven weeks, and are building up a group of regulars, to which new people are always welcome.

Ringing so far has included: rounds, call changes (with simple explanations), setting at hand and backstroke to 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star', 'Switcheroo', Kaleidoscope 'Long Places' and a Standing Game! This may all sound rather strange, but they are just different ways to gain really good bell control, and they are part of Learning the Ropes level 2. Experienced helpers are present, and there's a friendly atmosphere in which mistakes can be made and learn from. Refreshments are included in the £5 charge (no charge for helpers). No need to book - learners and helpers are all very welcome to come along and join in.

We now have some great new banners, making a permanent display for the public. People can browse them at their leisure to learn about change ringing today, and the development of bells and fittings which made this unique English art possible. Between 2pm and 4pm each weekday, there will be a ringer on hand to answer any questions, and of course the half-hour demonstration or have-a-go sessions make the perfect complement.

Six children from Park Street C of E primary school have been having fun with an after-school Bell Club. Over the last 10 weeks they have been learning to handle a bell, visited the bell chamber, and rung tunes on handbells. We'll be continuing next term!

On Tuesday 17th October, we were delighted to welcome a visiting group from Vernet-Les-Bains, the only town in France with bells rung full circle like English bells. Supported on their tour by several English ringing friends, we ended up with over 20 ringers. The first hour was for individuals having a go with the simulator. Then the clapper ties were taken off and the bells rung 'open', audible outside, for the second hour. Coffee was served and old friendships renewed.

Numbers are picking up for the public demonstrations and 'have-a-go' sessions every weekday afternoon. Recently we had this great group of five ladies having a session combining a demonstration and a go!