Ever thought about becoming a bell ringer? Here's your chance to try it out with an 8 week taster course. There will be eight weekly sessions on a Tuesday evening from 6:30pm to 7:30pm at the cathedral starting on Tuesday 28th June.
You will discover the history of the bells with a tour of the belfry. Find out how a bell works, what makes it ring and how it's controlled. You will then be guided by one of our experienced team through the first steps of bell handling, concentrating on technique and bell control. We will also show you how to raise and lower a bell; not sure what that means? Don't worry, it will all be explained along with all the other basic ringing jargon you may need to know! By the end of the 8 weeks you will hopefully be able to ring a bell by yourself with minimal guidance, although this can take a little more time for some as we all learn at our own speed. You will then be ready to join in with others and learn to ring as part of a band.
The course is suitable for anyone 10+ years old; children must be accompanied by an adult. It will take place in the cathedral ringing chamber, so you will need to be prepared to climb the 180 steps up the tower! Our regular practice evening will start at 7:30pm after the teaching session. If you wish you will be welcome to stay and watch the ringing and chat with other band members. The course is free to attend but donations are welcome. There are limited spaces on this course, to book your place or if you would like to know more email Nicky our Ringing Master njaubrey@hotmail.com
