Why bell ringing? That question has been asked by both family and friends and my answer is “I’ve always wanted to”. I then go onto explain that as far back as I can remember I have lived within the sound of church bells ringing out on a Sunday morning or a practice night listening fascinated to the sound of the changing pitch and tone of the bells, so maybe it might be me trying to recapture those halcyon days of my childhood back in the 50’s and 60’s.
Fast forward forty years. I had moved away from London to the peaceful village of Nether Whitacre and on certain Sunday mornings and Thursday evenings I could hear the bells from St Giles. I mentioned my memories of childhood to my wife who said “why don’t you give it a try? My friend Helen is a ringer I’ll have a word with her”. Date and time were arranged and on a very cold January night I attended my first practice night. I drove away after that practice night knowing that I was hooked and kicking myself for not taking up the hobby earlier in my life.
I progressed gradually and after six months I asked if I could ring at a special service and was given a few minutes ringing rounds, my first public appearance and a great boost to my confidence. I now ring at most morning services, weddings at St Giles and if asked, other local churches.
I find it both challenging and a fascinating hobby with always something new to learn and in my case forget and re-learn ( I’ll put that down to my age) but that doesn’t matter the main reason is to have fun and enjoy, and when I do get it right its very satisfying.
Steve
Fast forward forty years. I had moved away from London to the peaceful village of Nether Whitacre and on certain Sunday mornings and Thursday evenings I could hear the bells from St Giles. I mentioned my memories of childhood to my wife who said “why don’t you give it a try? My friend Helen is a ringer I’ll have a word with her”. Date and time were arranged and on a very cold January night I attended my first practice night. I drove away after that practice night knowing that I was hooked and kicking myself for not taking up the hobby earlier in my life.
I progressed gradually and after six months I asked if I could ring at a special service and was given a few minutes ringing rounds, my first public appearance and a great boost to my confidence. I now ring at most morning services, weddings at St Giles and if asked, other local churches.
I find it both challenging and a fascinating hobby with always something new to learn and in my case forget and re-learn ( I’ll put that down to my age) but that doesn’t matter the main reason is to have fun and enjoy, and when I do get it right its very satisfying.
Steve
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