Are you interested in learning to ring our church bells?
The current band of bell ringers at Ab Kettleby formed in 2014, following the church restoration. We are always looking for new recruits to join the team.
Bell-ringing as we know it today, originated in the 17th century. There are now around 5,000 towers worldwide and over 40,000 bell ringers continuing this centuries-old tradition.
There is no requirement to be physically strong to ring church bells; but it’s the technique that’s important. Ringing is a ‘motor skill’; just like riding a bicycle, you have to practice the skill to learn it. Most people have the ability to become a good ringer. There is no upper or lower age limit – you just need to be able to reach the ropes and be capable of controlling the bell!. Those of a shorter stature can stand on boxes to give a bit of extra reach!
Bell ringing is a great hobby, combining gentle exercise, mental challenges, and team work, along with musical and architectural appreciation. It’s also a great way to become involved in the local community. Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s a hobby you can take just about anywhere, and you can be sure of a warm welcome at every tower you visit.
At Ab Kettleby, we follow the ‘Association of Ringing Teachers’ teaching programme called ‘Learning the Ropes’. It follows a national syllabus to teach new recruits the correct handling technique for ringing, before progressing onto ringing with others and learning methods.
For more information, or to have a go, drop us a line, or visit the ringers on our practice night (Wednesday nights).
Or browse to one of the following pages