Would this ring your bell?

7th February 2008

JOIN one of the oldest clubs in Weston and help to ring the bells heard by hundreds of residents every week.

St John’s Bell Ringers Association was formed in 1864. Today it has 10 members including several learners.

Tower captain, Joe Beaumont, said: “We need at least three new members to account for holidays and sickness of other members to ensure that the parishioners of the church and residents hear the bells for the Sunday service.”

“We ask that members are over 12 years old, but there is no age limit in which you can learn to ring. You don’t need any particular skill, but you do need a sense of rhythm and to have good hearing as you will need to listen for your bell. You will need to be committed to the group as we are a valuable part of the church and we rely on all our members.

“People often think bell ringing is about strength but it is more about a good technique. It is not difficult to learn and learners will receive one to one tuition acquiring the skills in stages. They start off by learning to ring the bell and then learn how to follow another bell ringer before moving on to call changes.”

The eight bells at the church have recently been restored with new fittings and retuned as they had become difficult to ring.

The association and church members raised £30,000 in just three years through events and grants.

The bells had not been repaired since 1914 and their restoration took four months.

The association holds a number of social events including a barbecue in the summer, and a tower outing. The Wednesday practice often finishes with a social drink.

THE FACTS:
• Name of club: St John’s Bell Ringers Association.
• Founded: 1864.
• Who the club caters for: Anyone over 12 years with an interest in bell ringing.
• Meeting place and time: Every Wednesday from 7.30-9pm and Sunday from 10.30-11am at St John’s Baptist Church, in Lower Church Road, Weston.
• Who to contact for more details: Joe Beaumont, on 01934 516503 after 5pm.