St. Peter-ad-Vincula, Coggeshall.

Recruitment

We welcome everyone that thinks they might like to learn bell ringing and people that are just interested in seeing what we do. The notice below is on the door leading to the tower access which is by a spiral staircase.

SO LONG AS THIS DOOR IS OPEN,
EVEN IF THE BELLS ARE RINGING,
BOTH RINGERS AND NON RINGERS ARE WELCOME IN THE RINGING ROOM.

PLEASE MIND YOUR HEAD ON THE STAIRS

We encourage young people to join us but recommend that most of them are at least 12 years old. This is from the height and strength point of view, not age, so there may be occasions when a well built 10 year old would be able to manage.We assess each person individually.

We usually ask that parents accompany their children at least to the first session so that they meet with us and see what it is that we do. Sometimes both the parent and child learn to ring at the same time. It is a great hobby to enjoy together. The Essex Association of Change Ringers has its own Child Protection policy and there are at least three members of the tower that have been CRB checked and have completed the Church of England Basic and Foundation Safegaurding course. There are always two adults present whether it is for teaching or for maintenance.

But teaching bell ringing is not just for young people. Everyone can learn to ring regardless of age. If you have the co-ordination to drive a car then you have all the skills required. It is also useful to have a sense of rhythm and be able to count to ten both backwards and forwards.

We often meet people who say that they have always wanted to have a go at bell ringing. Well do something about it. You will have a very warm welcome if you visit our practice night on a Wednesday from 7.30 to 9pm. If you find that a bit daunting then give Janet Edwards, our Tower Captain, a ring beforehand and she will arrange to either meet you herself or get one of the other ringers to make contact with you. It's easier to walk into somewhere new with some company.

As you will realise, it takes longer to teach an adult than it does a child. Their minds are so much quicker. But learning to ring is not a race and everyone progresses at their own speed.

As soon as possible, we ask our ringers to attend on a Sunday to ring for the service. The bells are there to call people to worship and while bell ringing is a very good hobby we must never forget that.

Please contact Janet Edwards, Lavender Cottage, Kelvedon, Telephone: 01376 573412 Email: janwards40@gmail.com