Developing Twelve-Bell Ringing: A Somerset Outing
Living and ringing west of the Tamar, Cornwall has just one twelve‑bell tower, which presents particular challenges for those wishing to develop their twelve‑bell ringing. While there is a strong appetite among local ringers to progress, many face long journeys in order to attend practices.
One successful way we have found to supplement local ringing is by organising mini outings to “nearby” twelve‑bell towers. A couple of years ago we sampled three such towers in Devon: Buckfast Abbey, Withycombe Raleigh and Crediton, and this year we decided to cast our net a little wider and head into Somerset.
Ringers travelled by car from all over Cornwall, eventually meeting at South Petherton in good time to make full use of the bells. Our focus for the day was on Grandsire Cinques, with particular attention paid to improving our striking. We were delighted to be joined by three friends from Somerset who were familiar faces from the monthly open practice in Exeter. In total, around 24 ringers took part, allowing us to ring comfortably every other set.
In the afternoon we moved on to Bridgwater, where the bells proved a delight. Several members of the party were especially appreciative of the relatively small number of stairs up to the ringing chamber! One of our group, tasked with leading this session, impressed everyone by producing a carefully prepared spreadsheet detailing exactly who was ringing what in each set. Organisation at its finest!
Our final stop was the minster church in Taunton. Those who had rung there “in the old days” commented on how well the bells ring now, making for an excellent end to the day. Or rather, almost the end, as the day was rounded off in the best possible way, with a visit to a nearby hostelry for a well‑earned meal and a beverage or two.
A thoroughly enjoyable day, combining good ringing, good company, and good cheer. An encouraging step forward for developing twelve‑bell ringing in Cornwall.
Written by John Hereward on behalf of the Truro Cathedral bellringers.