For centuries the bells in St Peter’s church have announced church services, rung at weddings, tolled deaths and called farmers to the market.

In common with many towers, we no longer have a regular band of ringers and recently the bells have been silent on Sundays.

How can you help? Here are three suggestions:

1. If you are an experienced ringer please contact us! We would really like you to ring at Oundle. On the 4th Tuesday of each month we hold a practice night from 7.30 – 9.00pm. We are also hoping to establish a regular pattern of ringing at services.

2. Sessions for beginners are held every Saturday morning at Castor Church near Peterborough. This is an excellent way to learn as you will get expert advice from experienced (and sympathetic) ringers. You might want to go along one Saturday to have a try and see if it is for you.

3. A number of other towers in the area (such as Wadenhoe, Bulwick and Thrapston) try to hold regular practice nights. You would be made most welcome there.

If you want to find out a bit more about bellringing you can visit the following websites:

Central Council of Church Bellringers: www.cccbr.org.uk
Peterborough Diocesan Guild of Bellringers: www.pdg.org.uk

Bellringing is an enjoyable and challenging hobby. It is a good way to keep fit, develops mental gymnastics, provides a service to the church and the community, and is the ultimate team experience.

If you would like to participate in any way, or have any questions please contact our Tower Correspondent Pauline Davidson (pictured)  Her phone contact details are 01832 273526 (home) or 07941 621937 (mobile).