First New Learner Takes to the Ropes

Brian Reynolds, a Drayton villager, volunteered a while ago to learn bell ringing in order boost the number of people available to ring the new bells when they are installed later this year. We started off about 2 weeks ago using a bell at Drayton. This didn't go well as the long length and dampness of the rope on the bell made it difficult to handle. We then transferred to Tamworth where the length of rope is shorter and the atmosphere drier. Brian has had 6 lessons of about 1 hour each. He is making good progress and ringing the bell with a little help. He said that when he saw people ringing the bells he didn't realise it involved so much skill. He is persevering and is determined to be able to take part in ringing the new bells when they are installed.