So, how do you aim a talk about bells and ringing to 40 members of the Womens' Institute? This was my dilemma after an invitation from Nicola Jones – Guild Publicity officer. She had got together with Geoff Pring of Buckfast Abbey to arrange a day for WI members to learn about ringing. My task was to give them an introduction lasting about 45 minutes.

I decided to incorporate the use of my mobile bell simulator and a few other visual aids. Starting with a brief history of bells I went on to early forms of bell founding by itinerant founders and then outlined modern bell casting and tuning. Explaining how bells are rung used the simulator ably manned by Nigel Birt with assistance from Debbie. Next was an introduction to English bell ringing, moving on to explaining rounds and call changes. At this point I persuaded six ladies to stand in front with large numbers hanging from their necks. With a handbell each they "walked" call changes up to Queens and managed to ring some very respectable changes.

Next was a look at method ringing and another six ladies came forward to take over the large numbers and the handbells. Placing them strategically round a bench (1,3,5 on one side and 2,4,6 on the other) they walked Plain Hunting whilst the "audience" wrote down the changes on their worksheets. This proved to be by far the most popular part of the morning. After a mention of how ringing is taught it was time for some questions before watching and listening to the Abbey bells.. Nicola had persuaded several ringers from across Devon to come along and they proceeded to raise the bells and do some demonstration ringing. The ladies (+ one grandson!) could watch what was happening via a screen in the schoolroom which had been used for the presentation. This ringing is available to watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YcLLxfeBV0s

Following lunch, the group was split into two and one half visited Buckfastleigh church for a taster on ringing. Michael Wallis, Mike Tompsett and Martin Mansley coped manfully with a stream of ladies keen to have a go. Abilities varied considerably from reasonably competent existing ringers through returners with some knowledge to complete beginners. Half way through the afternoon the groups changed places. At which point a short halt was called as the temperature in the ringing room had become a little humid!! Eventually the stream of aspiring ringers came to an end and all went back to the Abbey. Whilst this had been going on there was a chance to try the Bowerdon mini-ring set up in a marquee at the Abbey and helpers eventually demonstrated ringing at the end of each group by ringing quarter peals. A final short "washing up" session brought the proceedings to a close.

It was very clear that the day had been much enjoyed by the ladies and it is obvious that another similar day is needed as the demand far outstripped the available places. Many thanks to Nicola for the organisation and to all the helpers who gave up their time to assist and, of course, Geoff and the Abbey authorities for allowing the use of their excellent facilities.

Martin Mansley

Thanks to Nicola Jones and Margaret Elms for - https://photos.app.goo.gl/N2qxZtYgYVUc8uyU9