President’s Piece

Towards the end of 2004 the Association handbells were refurbished to an ‘as new’ condition.  These handbells are very special as they were given to the old Midland Counties Association of Church Bell Ringers by the first President of the Central Council of Church Bell Ringers – none other than Sir Arthur P. Heywood, who lived and rang at Duffield.  When the Midland Counties Association was split up into four new Associations in 1946, these handbells became the property of our Association.

Since then, the handbells have been rung on a variety of occasions, but little or no work was done on them and over the period of time their condition had gradually deteriorated.  The clappers did not strike the bells properly, the handles became worn and the felts particularly needed replacing.  So, after considerable discussion, the Committee decided that it would be sensible to have the bells completely refurbished.  This could not be paid for by the Bell Repair Fund, as that is a charity whose purpose is the repair of church bells.

It is very much hoped that the handbells will be rung much more now that they are so much more rewarding to ring and it is hoped that they will be rung by a variety of ringers.  There are thirteen bells and although it is possible to play tunes on such a small number of bells, it is intended that they should mainly be used for change ringing.  Traditionally the Derby District Secretary has custody of the handbells.  It is intended that they should be brought to meetings so that anyone who would like to ring them may do so.  Specific requests for the use of the bells at other times should be made to the Derby District Secretary.  We do ask that great care is taken of the bells as they are valuable: they should not be clashed together at all and they will keep their shiny appearance for much longer if the actual bells are touched as little as possible – always hold them by their handles.  Please enjoy ringing them!

Pat Halls