Founded 1925 President-Mr George Boucher

Dunsford Devon Association AGM

Cong ratu lat ions to The 72nd Annual General that the Association looks Dunsford on winning the Meeting of the Devon As- forward to seeing you at Devon Association Major sociation of Ringers will the meeting. All are wel- Final Competition at be held on Saturday 1Jth come! This is YOUR op- Westleigh. They are offi- November 2006 at North portunity to come and cially the best team in Tawton Town Hall start- hear about the Association Special points of interest: 1 Devon and have broken ing at 2.15pm. Minutes and have YOUR say. o Devon Ringers' Interchange the long run by Eggbuck- from the last AGM along Teas will be served after land. Dunsford were also with minutes of the two the AGM in the Mortimer a Commemorative ringing awarded the top ringing committee meetings are Rooms. The bells of St Pe- trophy with 7.25 faults. enclosed within the edi- ter will be available before o Ropes Two of today's Dunsford tion. The Secretary states and after the AGM. . band were also in the win- 1 ·-··------·.:_.:_.:_.:____ =:::.:.::.:.�.::_ :��:.::..:-::-...... e Handbook updates ning Kingsteigntcn 8 Bell band so have won both the o Ringing Centres Membership is rising Devon 6 and 8 Bell compe­ titions in the same year. 'rhe number of towers af­ The Devon National Chal· Can anyone remember the filiated during 2006 had lenge was cancelled this last time this happened??? risen to 148. The previous year and the Association I suspect you would have record had been 133. This has been invited to take Inside this issue: to go back to the 60's or is very encouraging to the this on. This could be a 701s to find an equal or Association that has un­ potential fOr a show case for our style of ringing. Diamond Wedding 2 better. dergone a number of re­ forms recently. The Association will be With the rapid increase in seeking views from mem­ Mid Week Ringers 3 Affiliation Fees membership the Associa· bers and from the Deaner� tion wishes to meet this ies as this is a wonderful Emerald Isle visitation 4 Affiliation fees for 2006 challenge. How do we pro· opportunity for us to use are payable on 1 October mote our style of ringing, this network as an effec­ Ring for children 5 2006. The fees have been held at £5 for the year. If and not just in Devon. We tive means of communica� have some wonderful am­ tion from the ringers. It is East Devon Tour 6 you wish to enter the As­ sociation's competitions bassadors who attend na· envisaged that the Secre· tional events and stun the taries of the Deaneries Devon 8 Bell ringing 7 the rates will be £14 for 6 bell towers and £17 for 8 audiences with some re­ will come forward with markable striking and the ideas and suggestions and Results 8 bell towers, these include the £5 affiliation fee. You rising and lowering in direct these tc the Secre­ peal. tary either by post or as is South Devon Assodation 9 may pay at the AGM on 11th November at North With the talent currently happening more fre­ quently, by email. Secre­ Withycombe Raleigh 12 10 Tawton or by post to Mrs available in Devon the taries are reminded that Janice Gist, Honorary Association wishes to any news and results or Crediton 11 Treasurer, Barries Cor� capitalise on this and is items from their deanery ner, 5 St Giles in the seeking ideas to organise can also be sent to the AGM notice 12 Wood, Torrington, EX38 roadshows and workshops Editor of Devon Calls. It 7JQ. Please enclose SAE on a varied range of ac­ Carol Service 12 is your newsletter. if a receipt is required. tivities within ringing. PAGE2 DEVON CALLS OCTOBER 2006

Diamond Wedding- Mr and Mrs H Pascoe Ken Stacey

Herbert (Pickles) and Vida Pascoe very involved in village life and the Ken Stacey, a ringer at Highweek celebrated their diamond wedding local church of St Peters. Herbert passed away on Sunday 18 June yesterday 7th September. It was a was tower captain there and leader 2006. In the 70's and 80's he rang open house from lOam with a suc­ of a very strong team of bellringers with the Police Team at Wolborough cession of friends and relatives from the mid 60's through to the mil· and the Clock tower. Ken was one of passing through. A family meal is lennium. Both have been church life's gentleman and his loss will be planned for later. wardens and closely involved in set­ felt by all that knew him. Herbert and Vida first met in York· ting up and running the community shire shortly after Herbert re­ hall opposite the church. Although turned from the North Africa cam­ they moved to Ashburton some 10 Arthur Redstone paign at the end of the war. The years ago they still have very strong couple married there and returned ties back at Buckland. Brian Redstone's father Arthur to Herbert's native Devon where Herbert in his 90th year and Vida 83 passed away on Monday26 June they have lived ever since. For the have a son ·and daughter plus three 2006. Arthur the long time captain first 50 years they lived in the grandsons and three great grand­ at Highweek was 95. same house at Buckland in the sons. To mark 60 years of marriage Arthur's funeral was at High week on moor. Herbert at first worked on they decided to forgo the usual pre­ Monday 3rd July at 2.30pm with ring­ the Whitley estate as a stone ma­ sents and ask that donations in lieu ing from 1.30pm. son but later become self employed are made to the church bell restora­ running his own building business tion fund at St Peters Buckland. based at Buckland. Both became Graham Pascoe (son) Doreen Mudge

Central Council for Church Bell Ringing-PR Committee Doreen Mudge passed away at2.p.m. Sunday the 1st October. Doreen's This letter from Jane Wilkinson of Speakers are to include Lord Rayn­ funeral was held in Tavistock Parish the CCCBR Public Relations Com· ham you may remember the BBC Church at 11 am on Friday October · mittee is addressed to the Secretary programme in the spring about the 6th. George says, 'No flowers please, and Public Relations Officer. Neither restoration at East Raynham and donations if desired made out to · officer is able to attend and the letter Tim Joiner who made bells and ring­ DOREEN MUDGE CANCER FUND is reproduced to let· members know ing such a feature of his year as and sent to Morris Bros (Tavistock) what is happening and for informa­ Lord Mayor of Westminster. Ltd, The Old Foundry, Lakeside, Ta- · tion in case any other member Invitations at this stage are going vistock, Devon , PL19 OA'l.' wishes to attend. specifically to association Secretar­ Following on from the first Public ies and Public Relations Officers, Relations Workshop at Moulton in and we hope very much that they Sunday Ringing April 2005, the CCCBR Public Rela­ may perhaps be able to come · At the Ringing Roadshow in 2003 a tions Committee, is holding another though I do realise you're a long way survey of211 people showed that: this autumn. This time, to make it a away . or you could possibly send a 93% were ringers. little easier for those further north, representative. And if you know of 59% stated that they collected peals we are going to Melbourne, Derby­ someone else with a particular in­ 51% collected towers. shire, on Saturday, October 14th., terest in PR, do please encourage 91% stated that they rang for Sun­ 2006, starting at ten o'clock and fin· them to come too. The cost of the day Services. ishing promptly at four. day will be £7.50 to cover expenses 51% then stayed for the Service As we did last year, we aim to share and coffee, lunch, and tea; and all a quarter of those who didn't stay ideas and experience and provide a that's now needed is to let us know stated that it was because they went chance to discuss the practice and if you can come: further details will on to ring somewhere else. problems of presenting ringing to then be forwarded . We often hear about ringers and/or ringers and to the wider world. Jane Wilkinson. Organising group. tower grabbers who allegedly do not ring for Sunday services. Has any­ one ever actually assessed the truth of this assertion? Salcombe Who knows, we might actually find The tenth anniversary of the bells before ringing commenced at 4pm. that some of the keen ringers were being installed at Salcombe was on After ringer there was a superb buf­ equally keen service ringers, and Thursday24 August2006 when their fet at the Salcombe Yacht Club. turned up more often than those captain, Mike Wrigley and his ring- Thanks were expressed to Ken Cre· who are less keen. era and friends and supporters rang her for this hospitability. There fol­ With ringers supporting neighbour­ ing churches or ringing within a to ceiebrate this occasion. Five bells lowed a talk by Mr Ernie Brazier on of tP.e six came from North Huish how the money was raised and the Team Ministries, Sunday Service and were hang with the help of Dipt- help from Salcombe people. This was ringing can be an all day affair. Just ford and West Alvington ringers. The finished with thanks by the vicar. how many churches do you ring at Vicar, Rev. R A Owen, said a prayer Submitted by Norman Mortimore on a normal Sunday? OCTOBER 2006 DEVON CALLS PAGEJ East Worlingto.n Mid Week Ringers The bells at East Worlington are to be completely rehung by Nicholson's Holidaying in Birmingham The Mid Week Ringers, the with the work likely to be completed The high point of any year is a holi­ Ringklies, have been ringing for late November 2006. We wish day and this year in June the Mid throughout the summer. The time­ them well with this venture. Week Ringers, Ringklies, set off for table is from April through to De­ Birmingham. It was a superb holiday cember. No organised ringing takes with plenty of ringing and a comfort­ place from January to March in Zeal]donachorurn able hotel. Ringing started on Mon­ case of cold weather and difficultly day 5 June with towers in Glouces­ in travelling. , ter. On Tuesday we rang at The September meeting saw us at At Zeal Monachorum Nicholson s Habourne, Moseley, (steel bells), Poughill and what a welcome. We are due to rehang the bells with new Redditch (where we had lunch pro· were met with pasties, sandwiches, fittings during March 2007. , vided), lpsley and Rowley Regis. cakes and biscuits along with teas �··--1 On Wednesday the ringers (except and coffees. There was plenty of Merton for two) had a rest and visited Cad­ energy and the ringing was non­ bury World. The other two went ca­ stop. For this particular event the The bells of Merton will be rung nal exploring and were later seen lunch was later than normal and again after an absence of' almost 15 being interviewed by the police. The therefore we had time to travel to years. Thanks to the efforts of Mer­ afternoon was memorable. Ringing Washford Pyne to ring rather than ton villagers and the church congre­ at the Roman Catholic Cathedral, after lunch. One piece of excite· gation work on the new bells has be­ then the Anglican Cathedral and ment was that whilst ringing at gun. Ideally they will be up and ring­ then ringing at St Martins on all 16. Poughill, the most direct road to ing by Christmas. Now the money for Yes it can be done and all the ringers Washford Pyne was closed and this the bells has been raised, villagers enjoyed it. The day ended by ringing meant a detour. It does seem that have launched a second push for eash at St Paurs. rrhursday was spent at all ringers made it. A superb lunch in a quest to raise the £18,000 Smethwick, Brierley Hill, Wollaston, was served at the London Innj Mor· needed to restore a stained glass win­ ! Amblecote and Old Swinford. The chard Bishop. We had a number of dow. John Kimber who has been part evening meal ended with speeches guests from Oxford, who were very of the fund-raising effort said: "This thanking John and Linda Staddon impressed. Other guests were Ar­ has been a long haul. "It started off for the arranging. Friday was the thur and Jean Fidler who stayed with individual donations from coffee day to go back home and we rang at. locally. A splendid day out with the mornings and small events but then Boeley and were met by teas and standard being exceeded in every someone selling a second home said if cakes which proved very difficult af­ aspect. Thank you to all concerned. we sold the contents we could have ter a week of cooked breakfasts and 60% of the value towards the bells." muffins supplied dw·ing the morn­ Could you be a Ringkly? The villagers hope to hear the bells ing. The final church was Tarnworth by Christmas . Measuring about 12ft in Arden. A very enjoy week. This group meets on the second highj the window in the tower would Next year the holiday has been Wednesday of the month and is light up the bell chamber, but it was booked for 11 to 15 June 2007 stay­ open to Ringers and non ringers. blown out in a storm in 1986 and has ing in Leicester. 2008 is likely to see The only criteria is that you have been boarded up. Mr Kimber said: us in Swindon. time to join us. The morning venue "The Friends of All Saints at Merton Further information will be given at is a 10.30 start, with tea, then a are a very active group and the peo­ the monthly meetings. If you are in­ pub lunch at 1pm and a further ple of the parish not involved in the terested, please, just turn up. venue at 2pm or 2.30pm. church have proved to be very inter­ ested in the projects and offered so much help." To begin the next stage Proposed towers for 200617 of fund-raising the church is hosting two events. A flower festival took Second Wednesday of the Month place and a Songs of Praise service during August. October Moretonhampstead North Bovey Chawleigh November Holbeton Yealmpton December St Mark's Exeter 10.15-11.15 Bride Janet Webber rang the bells at Heavitree 12.00-12.45 her own wedding in Chawleigh. Janet was escorted to the belfry by her fa­ Christmas 1unch 13.00 ther to join her fellow bell ringers for March 2007 PlymptonSt Maurice To be decided a short peal before going up the aisle. She is also an enthusiastic fund­ Please check the venue before setting out. l raiser and supporter of the Devon Air Any queries please contact: Ken Rowe on 01803 521489 Ambulance Trust and other charities. I

!I ¥ � PAGE4 DEVON CALLS OCTOBER 2006

Part Two of the Emerald Isle visitation by Egg Buckland Ringers & Friends.

Grateful thanks are extended to some guides. I think the tower cap­ shouting. The poor lass had broken Dave Trout for organising a fabulous tain was modestly impressed with her upper arm - luckily her pelvis trip to Northern Ireland at the end our striking! and legs were okay. Well done to of May. We toured the South in We then beaded for our next tower­ Dave who jumped down to help wtth 1999, having travelled by mini-bus Drumbo. Following a circular scenic first aid. The paramedics took a from Plymouth, catching the ferry at tour we finally arrived at the tower while to arrive. Eventually she got Fishguard and spending a week to be met by a lively Irish character. on her feet and was able to walk ringing at most of the ringable peals This was a fine 11 � cwt. eight. All down the stairs to the ambulance. in the South; with the exception of of us enjoyed these excellent bells We followed up her progress and ar­ Waterford which unfortunately was and were probably slightly reluctant ranged for some flowers to be sent. a lock out and Drogheda. to leave! Ringing was thus cut short, but one Fourteen of us met up at Exeter air­ Lunch stop was back in Belfast. of our hostesses was fortunately not port on Sunday 28th May at 12.30pm. Toasted sandwiches were washed too badly injured! The party consisted of Dave and down with some suitable liquor. On On we travelled westwards to Ennis­ Hilary Trout, Roger and Ryan Trout, this fine summer's day, a group of killen. Where we had a lunch stop Sue Ashton, Suzanne Driscoll, H;arry us decided to get some air and stroll before ringing. This was an excellent and Ellen Bardens, Bernard Miners over to the next tower. This turned set of 10 bells housed in this mag­ I and Pat Johnstone, Norman and Syl­ out to be further than expected mak­ nificent cathedral building. The bells via Mortimore, David Trist and the ing us late for the first tower after were down and initially the tower Hon Sec. Due to an administrative lunch. A certain South Brent ringer captain though he'd help by pulling I error by Flybe, Norman had to go to struggled to keep up! up the tenor for us on his own! We Ireland with a Sylvia Bortimore, This first afternoon ring was at St explained our technique and be qui­ sadly leaving his wife behind for the Marks, Belfast. A tall red bricked etly stood to one side! Some fine week! We boarded the plane on tower, housing 10 bells with a tenor striking was had on the back eight. about schedule, with the Training weighing 12 cwt. These bells also Proper tone. officer managing to conceal his dan­ went well and were enjoyed. On then to our final tower of the gerous weapon through customs! A short trip brought us to Holy­ day - Londonderry - St Columb's Following a smooth flight, we landed wood - another fine peal of eight, Cathedral. Twelve bells including a in Belfast; collected our baggage and also around 12cwt. A bit snug and flat and sharp, tenor weighing all got into a mini-bus, which had springy ropes, but we made a rea­ 32cwt. Not easy to hear. Had a crack been hired for the week. We then sonable effort. Not the easiest to at the minor eight. Did not really headed to Ballymena to our first hear either. have enough ringers to rise in peal. tower. We were made very welcome An enjoyable drive along the coast to The back eight went well. Really and had over an hour to ring this 14- Greyabbey then followed. A very smart cathedral church - similar to Y2 cwt. peal of 12. The book is wrong enthusiastic ringing family greeted the style adopted in England. We by the way (17-Y2 cwt.). We rose the us. This was a pretty little set - a headed back towards Belfast, stop­ back 10 in peal and achieved some six weighing just 2cwt. These bells ping at The Thatch at Castle Daw­ reasonable striking. had stays and went really well. I son. England was playing Hungary We then made our way back to Bel­ find that you need just that little bit in a friendly and they had a screen. fast to check into our base for the of extra concentration - to avoid Roger and Ryan were happy. week - Benedicts Hotel in Shafts­ over pulling and to settle your strik­ Wednesday dawned. This was our bury Square. This was situated in ing. This little set rounded off an exploring day with only one tower. the city centre. It was evident that enjoyable day ringing at 5 towers in We walked down to Giants Cause­ much rebuilding and development of total. We made our way to a local way in the morning. An interesting the centre had occurred recently, hostelry in Greyabbey, where the geological feature. It looks like it is and in places was still ongoing. Our landlord and his daughter kept us man made! Fortunately a shuttle hotel was not very old either. It was entertained! bus was able to run the more senior very welcoming, clean, the rooms Tuesday morning soon dawned. All members down to the feature. Did spacious and comfortable, and the make breakfast bar young Trout (he all the youngsters walk back up? food and service of a high standard. needed his beauty sleep). Off we Following lunch we headed to the A good evening meal was enjoyed, headed westwards towards Ennis­ Bushmills Distillery - makers of the with a visitation to a local public killen. The first stop was at Lur­ famous and oldest Irish Whisky. house to find some real ale after din­ gan - a 21cwt eight. What a wel­ Three connoisseurs in the party took ner. come! Coffee plus a selection of part in the whisky tasting spot. We Monday morning arrived and all the bites, even scones too I believe. Had then travelled the northeast coast­ party made breakfast. Well set up Madams Bardens and Bortimore got line back down to Carrickfergus. for the day we departed for Hillsbor­ competition in the bun department? This interesting set of eight weigh­ ough. We felt that we had something This set was slightly challenging - ing 13 cwt. where in a detached to prove as this tower boasted one of due to tower movement. An unfortu­ tower situated over the churchyard the best competing teams in Ireland. nate accident occurred during ring­ entrance. Certainly unusual. These We rang the back eight for most of ing. One of the local lady ringers bells went well but were tricky. this stop. They go well, tenor weigh­ was standing on a wooden ladder Sadly we could not ring at Cole­ ing nearly 19cwt. Not the easiest to watching us ring. The ladder slipped raine - the captain doesn't allow vis­ hear and probably could do with and next we hear a bang and lots of iting teams (continued on Page 5) '1

OCTOBER 2006 DEVON CALLS PAGES

Emerald Isle (continued from p.4) Ring and make some noise for children

(even from Ireland). Despite intense The Children's Society is appealing charity's work with children to help efforts by Dave, it was no go! No logi­ to bell ringers from across the coun­ them deal with life's harshest chal­ cal or reasonable explanation was try to help celebrate its 125 anniver­ lenges and face the future with confi. given! Finding some live traditional sary by making a big noise and rais­ dence. We want as many young bell­ music in an Irish bar, following a ing money for the charity between ringers as possible to take part to decent meal at McHugh's Bar September and December. introduce a new generation into the rounded off the night. Thursday The charity is calling on people world of bell ringing and The Chil­ morning soon arrived. We were to across the UK to sign up to take dren's Society." head south. The weather finally part by calling 0845 300 1128 or The Children's Society was founded warmed up. It was dry all the week, email: [email protected] to by Sunday school teacher Ed ward but cooler at the start. The first stop find out how you can find a local Rudolf in 1881 after finding two of was Newcastle. This was a 3-Y2 cwt. bell-ringing group near you. his pupils had missed class to beg for six. Hardly ever rung! Went well and Bell ringing is an ancient art and food. Their mother had died and left very enjoyable. A joy to listen to the great fun. There are 5000 bell tow· them alone. He was determined to organist practicing. On we travelled ers in the UK and over 40,000 bell help children for w horn there was no to Rostrevor. We were due to start at ringers. So whether you're an old provision. The charity continues to 12 noon, but a large catholic funeral hand or fancy learning a new skill support children whose needs are was just beginning up the road for a we'd like to hear from you. overlooked, neglected or ignored. youngster killed in a fatal accident. The Peal Appeal fundraiser is part Sponsored teams set out to ring for a We decided to wait and delayed ring· of a national Bell ringing campaign given length of time and can be ing until after a pub lunch. 'fhe across the UK Bells as far a field as sponsored either for the number of ropes were low and the 5tll tricky. Perth, Australia will ring out be­ 'changes' they ring Ol' for the number This was a 13cwt peal of six. The tween September 1 until December of minutes continuous ringing they final tower of the day was in the 2006 in celebration of the 125 anni­ produce. South. We crossed the border and versary of 'l'he Children'sSociety. Last year over 800 bell towers soon arrived at Drogheda. A friendly The Children'sSociety and The Cen­ worldwide took part in special welcome greeted us. A fine set of tral Council of Church Bell Ringers ringing. eight weighing 22cwt. Some decent are promoting sponsored bell ring· The charity hopes ringers every­ striking was realised. This tower ing to celebrate this special anniver· where will rise to the occasion was missed in 1999 due to its posi­ sary and invite bell�ringers around and make this a very special tion being out with the itinerary. the UK take part. year for The Children's Society, A fine day rounded off with a meal Judith Rogers of the Central Council and use it to stimulate new in­ at The Plough in Hillsborough. The of Church Bell Ringers says, terest in ringing in their own pub down the road served some glo­ "The money raised will help the towns and villages. rious bitter. Friday, the final morn­ ing arrived. We checked out and headed for Bangor. This was a fine 21cwt eight. We then headed to St Commemorative Ringing Donard on the outskirts of Belfast to Following the death of Diana, is widely practised. ring a good set of six weighing 9cwt. Princess of Wales, advice was Muffled ringing on other Sundays The BB C \Vere present recording a given on the various forms of com­ during a period of national or local program about the current incum­ memorative ringing and the cir­ mourning is approved by some bent who had an interesting military cumstances in which they are ap­ clergy, but not by others. The ad­ history. They 'wanted' the bells ring­ propriate. It was stressed that vice of the incumbent must be ing in the background. Some reason­ they were offered as suggestions taken on this point. able striking was had. We missed only; they were not intended in Practices are best avoided when two towers - one was Coleraine (do any way to replace local customs. the bells are muffled. If in doubt, not allow visitors) and the other was Before any form of commemora­ the incumbent should decide. St Thomas in Belfast (repair work tive ringing takes place, the local In some places it is the custom on underway on frame). A quick lunch incumbent should be consulted. New Year's Eve to ring the bells and we headed to the airport. A fine Commemorative ringing is nor­ half-muffled up to midnight and sunny day and a smooth flight home. mally undertaken with the bells open thereafter. Summing up, this was an excellent half-muffled, open at handstroke. Muffled ringing must be well­ trip. The bells were all in good order. In some places it is the custom to struck to be effective. Thus what­ The flag was certainly flown for leave the tenor unmuffled. This ever form of muffled ringing is un­ Devon Call - Change Ringing. Tim· can be effective especially when dertaken it should be well within ing was impeccable - remember that tolling the bell,. the capabilities of the band. Every the roads are not all good. The hospi­ Fully muffled ringing is very rare effort should be made to ensure tality of the Irish is to be corn· and should be undertaken, if at that muffles are securely fastened

mended -· food, drink and service all all, only on the death of the sover· to the clappers and will not move good. The company was brilliant. We eign or of someone of outstanding in the course of ringing. I were privileged to be invited. Thanks local importance. For safety reasons, muffles should Dave for all your efforts. Another The custom of ringing half­ not be fitted or removed while bells memorable trip. muffled on RemembranceSunday are up. I l PAGE6 DEVON CALLS OCTOBER 2006

East Devon Tour- Sat July 15th Paignton Outing Ropes

The weather was glorious, the scen­ Paignton is one of the fortunate towv Who still uses an all hemp rope? We ery stunning and the company was ers that has at least two formal out­ had to swap a terylene top rope be­ good, all we needed was some decent ings each year for all the ringers of cause of wear on the tail and noticed bells! Ringers attended from Egg the tower, regardless of their experi­ what it was like to ring on an all Buckland, South Brent, Exeter St ence. Paignton always prefer to rise hemp rope. Rather springy and the Petrox, Sampford Courtenay, High and lower the bells when visiting, length differed according to the Bickington, Collaton, Dunsford and even if the bells are left up. On Au­ weather. 'rerylene ropes do come of course the Hon Sec! gust Bank Holiday Monday the day with their own problems though. At lOam a group of 14 Association started at Crediton. We encouraged In the last two years there have been members met up at Woodbury. We the less experienced ringers to join problems with terylene ropes disin· had three decent peals, rising this in with the rise and they did us tegrating. The pattern is always the heavy eight on each occasion. The proud. We heard a rumour that a same at a point between the pulley 23-cwt tenor takes some shifting - a certain Association ringer who lives box and the garter hole, a section of strapper is certainly recommended. nearby was startled by the impres­ rope about six inches long appears The villagers were holding their sive rise and striking and made en� to lose its tension, and the three market stall fair and enjoy hearing quiries--he assumed it was a Devon strands hang straight and rapidly the bells. On to East Budleigh to be Association team and was right. The fray. Ropes have been carefully met by David Pratt. I always compliments were not to end there. checked to see that they are not rub­ thought this was a ground floor We had a delight in ringing at St bing anything. Interestingly, the ring - not for around 40 years appar­ Michael, Tiverton. This tower is al­ point of disintegration appears to be ently! A pretty little set. Some de­ ways worth including in an outing. where the rope flexes most as the cent striking was had. The three and After lunch we arrived at South bell goes over at handstroke. four took a bit of sorting. Lunchtime Petherton, early, and made our way The problem seems to have only OC· arrived - refuelling at the Otter Inn towards the church. A beer festival curred with ropes supplied in the in CoJaton Raleigb. A pleasant sur­ was being held in the pub opposite past few years, and seems only to

prise ·- young Mr Percy Pester was and a few real cider drinkers were affect the ten millimetre rope. There sat inside having a pint and snack! in for a treat. Ringers tore them« have been a problem on a number of Can recommend this pub - decent selves away to ensure that ringing the smaller and middle bells at York ale and good choice of food of good commenced on time and the local Minster. The back bells, which have value. We then rang at Co1aton, a captain was so pleased with the rise a heavier gauge rope, have not been fair ground floor ring of six. The fifth and striking that he remarked that affected. It was discovered that a is less tricky. Proper tone. Percy now he wished some of his ringers were rope on one of the rings of six in lives in Budleigh. We were grateful present so that they could hear what York had done exactly the same, · that he gave up his time to travel up the striking should be like. again for no apparent reason. 'l'he to let us in. We said good bye to As if we had not had enough of only solution when the ropes go like Messrs Adams and Sharland, and heavy bell ringing we ended up at this is to cut out the affected part travelled north east to Sidbury. Not Axminster and were grateful to the and splice the ends back together, rung here for ages. Well kept set of ringers from Devon who joined us. but this is not ideal as it inevitably eight weighing nearly 17cwt. Every­ We thought that we had the best leads to the splice going through the body enjoyed these. Tall people that rise of the day there, where did we pulley box. ring the back bells need to negotiate find the new energy from? Have other towers had this problem, the clock case! Axminster is still fairly lumpy but a and does anyone have any explana· Our fifth tower was set down in the pleasure to ring and having arrived tion or suggestions to stop it happen­ valley behind Honiton- Farway. Got early we were able to ring that bit ing? It seems to only affect the Mar­ this tower at short notice due to longer than planned and still fin­ low terylene (which has red and problems at Feniton! Had some good ished at the published time. black tracer threads) cin ropes sup­ striking. Need a reasonable fourth Tired and exhausted we made our plied within the past three years or man - one ringer lowered this bell at way to the Otter Inn, Weston, near so, and only seems to be a problem backstroke! Honiton. It is becoming difficult to with the ten millimetre rope. Many Finally, we crossed the A30 and ar­ find pubs that will take a coach in ropes have been recently spliced rived at Payhembury. Mr Training the evening and serve good food and where they have done exactly the Officer reversed into the wall at beer and the Otte1· Inn excelled it­ same thing in exactly the same speed and gave the Exwick mayor a self. We had pre-booked and were place, from various be1ls, and so far jolt! Luckily limited damage (to the warmly invited. All meals were it has defied any explanation. wall!). This is a fair set. Sadly the served swiftly leaving us with ample Ropes are expensive and in some ropes were rather low! time to talk and drink before the towers do not last any longer than We rounded the day off with a fine coach was due to leave. six years. Rope manufacturers do meal in the Six Bells. Worth a visit­ A tiring day for some, although the give guidance on how to store and the proprietors were previously in same person did rise the tenor in use ropes and it is best to follow this West Down and knew Mr Phillips! every peal, in every tower, single­ advice to ensure that you obtain Many thanks to those who attended handedly. Thanks to Paul Rowe for maximum use of the ropes. If you and helptld to make it a memorable arranging the towers, John Kelly for have any useful tips please do not th

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Devon 8 Bt'll (�all change ringing by Robin P Burnham

A Di�1Ul1ution of ,a; yOIHH thoughts & 7. When pitching off for the rise the beneath the ringer, otherwise they hinta by Hohin P Burnham ex Dart· back bells have to follow well for­ cannot work as a team. During the mouth Rinl(el· l G ye1ll'B latterly 'I'a­ ward to get the sound right. We used rise the strapper eases out the rope viHtoek H.inl{er fo r 25 years, Captain to pitch the Tavistock Tenor behind as required, leaving the sally to the l�merittw 12 yearB the 6"•. They have to swing well to ringer who in turn must release the 3rd 1. The· 'J'rohlo starts the race, the ensure striking on the usually rope after the sally pull. Catching second HotH the space, and the Tenor pull) once striking the swing is im­ hold again just above the strapper's holdH the Paee. Earn Tucker told me mediately reduced to allow the treb­ hands on the end, as his hands this v<�ry early on, a very much re­ les to get away as until their sally reach their lowest point release the specl:t1d Dartmouth Ringer. It is strike is achieved the correct lead end to the strapper in readiness to quite correct, the treble starts and cannot be attained. catch the sally. lf he does not, he has the responsibility of rising and 8. Jack Hine of Plymstock used to will get pulled off the box. Once falling the Bells in peal but once the say it is like Concord, taking off, the the bell is up and the strapper has tenor is striking, has to follow him nose or treble has to rise up first un­ only the end in his hand, he should closely and evenly because with a til the correct lead is obtained sally ask the ringer if ready. If so say " 1 heavy Tenor the Ringer is at full to tenor end. Only then can the rear I next time 1 and only when the ringer stretch to get the bell up and cannot tenor bells get away. Once the treb­ is on the end stroke and has the alter his speed of rising. Once up the les are up to the correct level then rope in his hand must the strapper second has the very important job of they have to wait until the tenors release. This is imperative. setting the space to allow the bells to also arrive at top ringing. This is I have seen many times, ringers not follow at the correct speed. Finally because a treble might have only a 3' doing this and the poor man on the the tenor holds the set pace constant wheel whereas the tenor could have box has his hands on the sally and to provide support to the changing a 6' or 7' wheel with correspondingly no end in his hand not funny! 'rhe bells. It is possible for the tenor man much more rope to travel. Lowering ringer can then if wished hop off the to adjust the speed to attain the best is the reverse, tenors have to squeeze box and the strapper remove it out pitch for the particular set of bells in ihe sally stroke, and taking in of the way. being rung. ropo until the trebles can start to 15. I can never understand while 2. It is my belief that every set of come down. Once the tenors are mov­ many towers have boxes for the bells has its own correct pitch at ing a few inches only then can the ringers to stand on, usually largish which they som1d best and can treble start to take in the last of his bells with long ropes. It means that change the easiest. rope, though he will still have more the ringer has a heavier weight of 3. When ringing from stay the tenor swing left than the tenor. rope to carry, this can get quite tir­ must be brought down to pitch im­ 9. This difference in rope lengths also ing. Also the chance of the rope get· mediately otherwise the bells will shows up when a small bell is follow­ ting beneath the ringers toes if there stay at too high a level. ing a large bell. It might have to pull is no front on the box, possibly up­ 4. In Devon call changes, the sallies out 12" after the large bell to strike ending him. We used to ring Tavis­ must be snapped back as it is called, in the correct place after it. Likewise tock which is 24 cwt, without a per· and allow the ends to rise up to the the Tenor following the light bell manent box, very easily. When ris­ correct level. I believe the reason for could well pull out before the treble ing a large bell on one's own you this is that on the sally stroke the to ring after. need to be able to move around the rope is only wound around a short 10. All very confusing. floor with out worrying about stay· length of wheel, while on the end 11. It is most important for a ringer ing on a box. stroke it goes much further around to learn at an early stage to hear his 16. Rope work. thus giving much more leverage. bell within the peal. It should be When fitting new ropes, if pre· This is how in Devon ringing that noted that the bell strikes every time stretched, hang as soon as possible lovely rolling rhythm is attained, the ringers hands pass his /her face otherwise all benefit will be lost. All described by many elsewhere as cart going up on both end and sally. the surplus rope should be retained wheeling. They do not know what 12. A steady stroke should be aimed in the wheel not cut off. This will they are missing\ at from the start not slavishly follow­ allow cutting and splicing at a much 5. In method or change ringing the ing the bell in front, though this can later date giving a new lease of life end is pulled firmly to ensure the only be obtained from experience. to the ropes. Long splices should be sally rises to provide the treble rest This irons out the small changes in used, never short splices which hin­ der free rope movement. I characteristic of method ringing rhythm. where the sally speed is slower than 13. When changing it should not be Bell rope tails should always be the end stroke. This gives the dis­ possible to hear the change, only that turned back and tucked in for the jointed sound to the ringing rather the notes have altered. full length supplied. this increases than the smooth even speed of 14. Strapping. Or the art of two peo­ the life of the rope and safety. Not Devon Call changes. ple working as a team to rise a heavy cut off and only a short eye splice I inserted at the very end, this I feel 6. It is always interesting to watch bell in peal. Ge01·ge Boucher and I j method ringers trying to ring the found the best way is for the actual is a very bad practice. l Devon way for the first time, they ringer to stand on a box to allow him 17. In dry weather, single rope gets ¥j try to snap back the sally, but also to reach well above the strapper, who very whippy and especially on eight 1 through habit the end stroke so if has the coil of rope in his hand. bells which usually have longer you do not look out you find the bells This also gives the strapper a reason­ ropes, can cause accidents. Ern lowering. able length of stroke to pull the bell Tucker at (continued on page 10) PAGE 8 DEVON CALLS OCTOBER 2006

Results Devon Association Minor Final Devon Association Major Final 3. High Bickington 36 at Kenn on 27th May 2006 held at Westleigh on 10 June 4. Alphington 51� 2006 5. Down St. Mary 63 1. West Alvington 27 1/2 1. Dunsford 14 3/4 6. Ide 96� 2. Collaton St Mary 39 3/4 2. Eggbuckland 19 7. Mariansleigh 112 3. Drewsteignton 40 1/2 3. Burrington 19 114 4. lddesleigh 41 1/4 4. East Anstey 23 1/2 Competition held at Widecombe­ 5. Down St Mary 46 5= Collaton St Mary 25 3/4 in-the-Moor on 5 August 2006 6. Lamerton 51 3/4 5=Morthoe 25 3/4 1. Eggbuckland 33 7. Ide 61114 7. Exeter St Petrock 29 1/4 2. South Brent 40 8. Pyworthy 80 1/4 8. Stoke Gabriel 30 3. West Alvington 50 9. West Down 31 4. Exeter St. Petrock 59 First two qualify for the Major Final 10. Littleham 34 114 5. Exminster 64 to be held at Westleigh on 10 June 11. South lJrent 37 3/4 6. Burrington 72 2006. 12. West Alvington 47 112 7. Stoke Gabriel 83 8. North Bovey 84 Result of the top ringing only held at Judges. Ian Avery, Brian Drake, 9. Chagfurd 97 Kenn on 27th May 2006. Ivor Hookway and Paul Pascoe. 10. Widecombe 106 Scrutineer. Gerald Arscott. 11. South Tawton 122 From Novice Competition. 12. Ide 144 1. Inwardleigh The Viscount Lambert Shield 2. South Brent B held at Spreyton on 17 June Results of the Bridestowe com­ Judges: John Coulthirst, Cedric 2006 petition on 19th August 2006 Hockin, Percy Pester and Michael 1 Eggbuckland 9.5 Poole. Scrutineer: David Trist. 1. Down St. Mary 29Y:z 2 South Brent 15 2. Zeal Monachorum 38\12 3·Mortehoe 18.5 Okehampton Deanery Festival 3. Sampford Courtney A 53lt2 4 Exminster 26 held at Bridestowe Srd June 4. Alphington 68lt2 5 Stoke Gabriel 26.5 2006. Judges: Cedric Hockin & 5. Ide 73 6 Littleham 28.5 Robin Burnham 6. Mariansleigh 77 7 Lamerton 33 7. Drewsteignton 88 8 Alphington 36.5 Novice Section: 5 minutes of rounds. 8. Spreyton 104 9 West Down 41.25 1st. Chagford 42 112 9. Sampford Courtney B 142Y2 10 Hclbeton 54 2nd. Exbourne 55 112 10. South Tawton 154 11 South Tawton 54.5 Judges: Messrs P. Pester & M. Tate 12 Ide 103 Intermediate Section: 112 Peal. Judges: John Wickett and Helen 1st. Sampford Courtenay 69 South Devon Ringers Association Robinson 2nd. South Tawton 83 112 Annual 6 bell competition held at 3rd. Exbourne 97 112 East Portlemouth on 1st July 2006 'Lydford on 19 August 2006 4th. Chagford 98 in aid of Devon Historic Churches 1 Eggbuckland 8.5 Trust. 2 South Brent 16 Main Section: Full Peal. 3 Stoke Gabriel 18 1st. Chagford A 35 -1. West Alvington 29 112 4 South Tawton 19.5 2nd. South Tawton 45 2. Exminster 34 5 Littleham 21.5 3rd. North Tawton 53 112 3. Stoke Gabriel 43 112 6 West Down 23.5 4th. Chagford B 56 4. Ide 49 7 Exminster 24 5th. Bridestowe 69 5. South Brent 73 8 Mortehoe 24.5 6th. Sampford Courtenay B 77 6. South Pool 101 9 Lamerton 34.5 7th. Sampford Courtenay A 97 7. Chivelstone 114 10 Alphington 41 Judges: John Coulthirst and Percy 11 Holbeton 45 Competition held at Littleham Pester. 12 Ide 57 on Srd June 2006 Judges: Pat Johnston and Bernard Lapford Revel held at Lapford Minors A Section on 11th July 2006 1. Winsford 19 A Section Results of the Kenn Deanery 2. Mortehoe 24\12 1. Ifracombe 18\12 held at Cheriton Bishop on 23rd 3. Down St. Mary 26 2. Mortehoe 25 September 2006 4. East Anstey 27\12 3. Littleham 26\12 A section: 5. West Down 30\12 4. East Anstey 28 1 Exminster 32 6. Burringtoo 33 B Section 2 Dunsford 36 7. Mariansleigh 45\12 1. South Tawton 29� 3 Alphington A 59.5 8. Alphington 47\12 2. Burrington 31lt2 4 !de 92.5 OCTOBER 2006 DEVON CALLS PAGE 9

Results

- -�·- -·�--- --�------·----��-------�---··-· · r ! B aoction: 'I'hn individual marlo; from the Major Final at Westleigh in 2006 are listed below, the 1 ChriHtow 0H.f> judges wer<� (A) I an A very, (H) Brian Drake, (C) lvor Hookway, (D) Paul Pascoe '\ 2 Konton G:J •renm Ave a Alphington B ()4.5 (A) (B) (C) (D) 4 lhwliHh 78.5 1. Dunsford H75 19 10 10 20 2. 19 21 17 17 21 Novice gndion EggBuckland Konton 31.5 3. Burrington HJ.25 2:3 14 17 23 4. 28.5 29 17 18 30 ,J udgtm: Percy Pester and tJohn East Anstey 5. 25.75 27 23 23 30 Coulthirot Collaton St Mary 5. Morthoe 25.75 26 24 23 30 7. 29.25 29 32 28 28 South Devon 8 Bell eompetition ExeterSt Petrock 8. 30 :37 24 24 35 held 11t Plyn1pton St Maurice on Stoke Gabriel 9. 31 28 25 38 7 October 2006 West Down :J:J 10. Littleham 34.25 ,10 25 25 47 11. 37.75 45 30 43 l Kingsteignton 12.5 South Brent :33 12. 47.5 52 S7 38 63 2 Eggbuckland 19.5 ' West Alvington ' 3 Exeter Cathedral 23.5 !-·-····-····--·--··------··· . . ·------' 4 Buckland in the Moor 30 -- ---� 5 Lamerton 31 South Devon Association , 6 36.5 .... ····--- --···------·-· ······-·-----·----·------South Brent - � ! : 7Stoke Gabriel 37.5 I' SIX · BELL RINGING FES'l'IVAL HELD AT ! 8 Exminster 51 gAST PORTLEMOUTH ON SA'l'URDAY 1sT. JULY 2006 9 Kingsbridge 61 10 65 Plymstoek STATEMEN'L. .O.l" ACQQJJN .. TS 11 Plyrnpton St Maurice l 02 I INCOME: �::XPEND!TURE: Top ringing p1·ize: Kingsteignton 5.5 faults j Entry fees. Judges: Brian Drake and Mary I 7 teams@ £6.00 £42.00 Mears Church collection £43.00 Orgonist.'s fees £10.00 / £75.00 £10.00 1 Raffle takings �Judgo'H travelling expenses League table by J. Kerslake i Donation from Ide Ringers £25.00 Photoeopying £3.40 Table up until the end ofSeptember Tot als £185.00 £23.40 2006 I £185.00 C =competitions entered, +I·= fault Income difference Expenditure -£23.40 To Devon Historic c +I· £161.60 Churches Trust. Eggbuckland 7 19.14 j ' Dunsford 5 16.00 ) Colin Adams reports. The day was a gTeat success from my point of view and it j South Brent 9 14.44 was good to see everyone enjoying thenu;elvcs. In spite of our numbers being i Mortehoe 6 14.17 1I small the cooperation I received and generosity conveyed made the whole exer� I West Alvington 8 12.00 ) cise a great pleasure. As promised l am nU.nehing a copy of the Balance Sheet j Stoke Gabriel 9 11.78 , People were very generous and I am pleased tD say I am able to send off£161- 60 ! 11.60 I � Devon Historic Churche Littleham 5 � s -- -··· --·�------·-·· 5 10.80 Tr\��-�"· . -·· Burrington . J1 Exminster 6 9.67 The South Devon Ring(lrS Association AGM will be DownSt Mary 6 9.00 11 on 24th February2007at 2.30pm at Upton , West Down 5 7.60 j Alphington 8 7.25 South Tawton 7 6.29 andbell Lamerton 5 4.40 /H ��i���rs��ke-Gabrielat Huntsha� 5 4.00 Widecombe Paignton handbell ringers are always When a Stoke Gabriel ringer said his I 10 2.80 j I de looking for ways to raise money for son was getting married and the re- 1 I1 I Dame Hannah Rogers School at Ivy· 1 ception was at Huntsham on 29 ,July Results bridge and were booked for the wed- 2006 the band immediately offered to You can post your own results on ding in Forde Abbey, Chard, Somer· travel to ring there on the fine set of. the Devon Association website, , set of Catherine Morgan on 23rd Sep· I eight. The wedding ceremony was please see www .devonbells.co. uk. I tember 2006. Catherine's mother had ' held at Millfields School and as the If you wish your results to published been a handbell ringer at Axminster cars passed Huntsham church to go please inform the editor. Michael and it was fitting that the Paignton to the nearby house for the reception Webster, 5 Kings Rydon Close, Handbell ringers rang some of the the bells rang out, being a pleasant Stoke Gabriel, Totnes, TQ9 6QG. 1 same tunes that she had. surprise to all concerned. I PAGE 10 DEVON CALLS OCTOBER 2006

Devon 8 Bell call change ringing (contd fr om page 7) Withycombe Raleigh-12

Dartmouth lost the end of his thumb 23. Long Splicing. The two ends to Following the successful appeal to through this very reason. It is also be joined are unlaid fully back 18". raise fu nds to augment the bells of very hard on the hands in rising and Marry tightly together alternately so the parish church of St John the falling due to the small size of rope that you have two sets of 18" strands Evangelist, Withycombe Raleigh, the to hold. in hand. Select a pair lying together bells were rung for the last time on 18. Many West country Ringers also and half knot them so that the Whitsunday. A group of volunteers pass the loop over their wrist when strands appear at right angle to the began the task of dismantling the ringing presumably to prevent the lay of the rope. Pull snug. frame so that parts of it could be rope flapping if set overlong. This is Select another pair lying together, transported to the bell hangers for a very dangerous practice, as if the unlay the strand back along the modification to take the new pieces bell is set for any reason the stay rope, laying in the other gently of frame and the three new bells. could give way. This might be due to twisting so it lays in well, light col­ Under the guidance of Reg McKenzie woodworm or because damaged our inside lay, proceed back until 3" from Nicholson Engineering the through heavy setting, and the rope from end of strand being laid in. Half bells were lowered from their posi­ will be wound up over the wheel lift­ knot as before. Cut off long end to tions in the frame onto metal bear­ ing the ringer off the ground if he match short end. Turn rope around ers so that preparations could be cannot release in time. Very painful! and carry out the same procedure to made for them to be moved into their 19. The bell should be set on end to the remaining pair and half knot. new homes within the modified find the correct length of rope. Once You should then have three sets of frame in the tower. Work com­ tucked, any adjustment should be pairs spaced approx 15" apart. menced on Monday the 3rd of July made in the wheel, or using tempo­ These ends should be cut back and on the installation of our three new rary boxes or short strops not by re­ tapered long enough to splice in. bells. With volunteer labour and Reg tucking the ends. Tuck in for three tucks each and roll McKenzie, the framework to make a Once the tucks are set in their place underfoot to settle in. second layer arrived and was then from new, a crease fo rms in the rope 24. Should a rope get badly worn or duly manhandled and placed in the which retains the end in position. break, the usual place being where order to be raised into the tower on Any later adjustment destroys this passing through the sheave box. Un­ the church floor. The bells them­ and the end will not stay in place. wrap the surplus rope in the wheel, selves arrived on Tuesday. We had a 20. This leads to the horrible and cut off the worn section from both visit from the local school to see the very dangerous practice of using ends and drop it down until you have bells. Also a new design for the im­ twine or tape to hold the end in fresh rope through the sheaves provement to the sound control has ' place. I have seen this come loose around 4' beyond to allow for wear been tried out, and once the whole during ringing and nearly take off a and splice. Ensure you have enough 12 is in and ringing we shall be tak­ ringers finger like a cheese cutter. to retie in the wheel after splicing. ing meter readings before and after People forget that while a bell is so Then splice as at 23 above. Rub in to see how successful it is. The try­ easy to handle at the end of each plenty of rope grease to reduce fric­ out took place on Friday 21 July, and stroke, during the swing several cwt tion on completion, as the rope gets the first peal was rung on Monday . are on the move and will not stop hot it will melt into the rope, this is 31. The dedication service was on easily, like a garage door spring, mainly at the start of the rise and Sunday the 8th of October at 4.00, keeps on going what ever is in the end of lower. conducted by our very own Father way. (Ever tried to change one? ) I hope these few thoughts prove of Tony, who has supported us from the 21. The only time twine is used is interest to fellow ringers and their start, and also acted liaison with our when the rope comes from the sup­ learners. main benefactor. We also now have plier, on the ends, careful examina­ one of our band as a member of the tion will show this is always a sail­ GPC and the amount of interest and makers whipping which has the Exeter St Mark-10 enthusiasm that has resulted from turns retained in position. Any later our little project has brought the repairs to ropes should have whip­ Dedication ofnew bells whole church and community alive. ping done in this manner only. Now that the work is complete, we So now Devon has three 12's. Do 22. Rope grease can be obtained, have turned our attention to the ap­ come and visit us on Friday nights, though I have always used the good pearance of the ringing room which everyone will be welcome. We have old tallow to grease the rope where has been painted, we have added a now closed the fund following a do­ running through the fillet hole and heater, carpet and blinds. The new nation from The Foyle Foundation, the sheaves. bells will be dedicated by the .Bishop which has secured the, last funding Bell ropes wear from the inside out of Crediton on Sunday 29th October to allow this project to go fo rward as at these points and in old ropes the such a rapid pace. From start to fin­ at 4pm. All are welcome to attend. characteristic decrease in rope size There will be ringing by the local ish we have only taken 8 months to can be seen. band before the service and immedi­ raise all the money, have a faculty To check old ropes the lay should be ately afterwards. Open ringing on granted, the framework designed, opened to inspect the inside of the the 10 will then fo llow for as long as the bells cast, a�d· back ringing rope it should be a lighter colour required. Refreshments will be again. A massive thank you to all than the outside, if not ditch it, far served in the adjacent church hall those who have so freely given to­ too old. wards this. after the service. Matthew Hilling. Jo hn Forster, Captain. OCTOBER 2006 DEVON CALLS PAGE 11

Crediton B urton Art Gallery 'J'he Two 'I'reblofl Appeal lnunclwd Sculptor, Mm·cuH Vor�rette, was in­ worthy, was commissioned to make a by Holy Crmm, Crodil.on, hnB t�p ired in hiB lnteHt. Ht'.ries of work in commemorative piece in remem­ renehed £11,7()0. Tlw aim ifo to t-11b� fen tu ring different types of belh'l. An brance of the animals slaughtered tlw ehurch'H eurront pntd of 10 ht'Jl!H exhibition at the Burton Al't Uallory nnd in recognition of the hardships l.o a full pnal ol' 1:!., put.t.in1�· it. on a and Museum in Bideford has a seri­ endured by the farming community pnr with Kxetor Cntlwdrnl nnd ous and poignant meaning as th(� during the outbreak. I chose to make Bur:kfntiL :\hlwy. Whnn Uw upJWnl first sculpture was created folJowing a bdl that can be rung by anyone. I WHH ltilllwhnd in Jo'nbrunry, it waB the end of the foot and mouth epi­ believe this is the only public access o:otimut�Jd tlw pmjoc:t would cost demic in 200 L Marcus explained: "I boil in this country,n he said. Marcus J2 J /),000, hut thnt has since in­ heard my neighbour ring the church explores the idea of bells as silent ob­ cftiHNtJ(l to .£ 21,000 due to a rise in bells all day after the movement re· jects, sometimes solid or as acoustic tho \Vorldwide market price of cop­ strictions were lifted on my parish amplifiers. "There is something uni­ por, a crucial bell-making material. at the end of the epidemic. This was versal, profound and spiritual we rec­ Bell ringer, Howard Egglestone, the first time they had rung in six ognise in a bell with resonance sym­ walked the 184-mile Thames Path in months. I realised something was bolically as well as acoustically," he September in aid of the appeal and I, disappearing that had been funda­ said. The Burton Art Gallery is open has already raised £1,000 in spon­ mental and was going largely unno- Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm and sorship. Anyone who would like to ticed." Marcus, who lives near Bea� Sunday 2pm-5pm. Admission is free.

"------�-----·- make a donation to the Two Trebles I' ······------··-·---···------··--·--·"··- Appeal can call 01363 772566. Cheques should be made payable to The Crediton Two Trebles AppeaL Ringing Centres

A Ringing Centre is a combination new £500 prize, also provided by the of people, tower bells, technology Worshipful Company of Founders, Yo ung Ringers and other facilities designed to help for the encouragement of young peo­ people learn to ring. Centres are ple in ringing. 'fhe Young Ringers' Afternoon held intended to promote high standards Tavistock Ringing Centre on Saturday 22 July was a great suc­ of teaching, and to train teachers of St Eustachius, Tavistock 10 be l!s cess. 14 young people from 9 to 20 ringing . .Each centre has a manage­ 24 cwt. Contact: George Mudge, came from various parts of Devon, ment team and access to competent Meadowside, Collaton, Tavistock, with several parents, and a handful teachers, and the tower will usually Devon, PL19 9JT. (01822) 615456. of other valuable helpers. The simula­ have an active band of ringers with Simulator: Abel on all 10 bells + tor at Wolborough was in constant their own weekly practice and ser­ the 2 dumb bells. Teaching rooms, use, and the handbells were also vice ringing. The facilities will nor­ toilets and catering: Parish Centre popular. The BBQ at St Paul's church mally include a simulator, class­ across the road is available fOr seemed to go down well, followed by a room space, and other teaching aids hire. thoughtful short act of worship con­ such a dumb bell, a video camera Troyte Ringing Centre ducted by Tim King, and yet more I and playback equipment. Bampton and Huntsham, 6, 14-0-3 + handbells for the mad and keen after .� History dumb/bell; 8, 8-0-27 respectively. most had gone home! The Ringing Centres Committee Contact: Michael Hatchett, Five - -·--·· was formed in 1993 to support exist­ Oaks, Bampton, Devon, EX16 9LE. Handbook amendments ing ringing centres and to encourage Tel; (01398) 331843. Website the creation of new ringing centres. http://w ww. troyteringingcentre .org. More recently the Committee has uk. Equipment - Bampton: Abel Salcombe, Mike Wriggley administered the allocation of a simulator fitted to independent prac­ 01548 85 33 62 MOB 07973894748 £50,000 benefice given by The Wor­ tice dumb-bell, video camera, video Dean Priot·. Alan Brown shipful Company of �' ounders to as­ player, tape recorder. Huntsham: 01364 643 586 sist in the setting up of ringing cen· Sound management, allowing unre­ tres. To date there are in excess of stricted open ringing. Teaching Feniton. Josephine Chown 40 ringing centres of which over 30 rooms at both towers. Toilets: In 01404 850513 have received a grant from the Wor· church at Bampton, Community Hall Roborough (North Devon): shipful Company of Founders bene­ at Huntsham. Catering facilities for Audrew Ward, Merrifield, Roborough, fice. light refreshments at both towers. Winkleigh, Devon EX19 8TB Current activities Training Courses: see web site or Currently the Committee1s work contact details above. More tutorials Beaford. Richard Heard, still at Be a­ consists mainly of promoting the for small gronps arranged on de­ ford Garage. (S on of previous contact) setting up of ringing centres and mand. formally recognising those who meet Wolborough Ringing Centre Vicar of Beaford, Roborough, St its standards. Increasingly the Com­ Central Council recognised. At Wol­ Giles in the Wood and Yarn­ mittee is becoming orientated to­ borough, Newton Abbot. 8 15-2-7. scombe the Rev. S Thorp has gone to wards supporting ringing centres in Contact: Rev Russell Chamberlain, 5 another parish and has not yet been their activities. 'l'he Committee is Coach Place, Wolborough, Newton replaced. also managing the introduction of a Abbot, TQ12 1ES, 01626 368889. PAGE 12 DEVON CALLS OCTOBER 2006

Notices Carol Service Treasurer

The Devon Ringers The treasurer is Mrs Ja nice Gist, The AGM will be held on Satur­ Barries Corner, 5 St Giles in the day 11 November at North Carol Service will be. on Wood, Torrington EX38 7JQ. Tawton Town Hall starting Saturday 16th December Please ensure that all subscrip­ 2.15pm tions and competition entry fe es at Crediton at 3pm. The annual affiliation fe es are are up to date. These are all pay­ Please make every effort to attend. due on 1 October or at the AGM able by 1 October each year. All The collection will be in aid of the cheques payable to Devon Asso­ and will be £5. In addition the Children's Hospital South West. In ciation of Ringers. competition fe es will be £1.50 recent years well over £500 has been a rope, being £9 for 6 bell towers collected for this excellent cause. For and £12 fo r 8 bell towers. those who have not attended, this is an inspiring service and a worthy Editor Any bellringing clothing or prelude to the fe stivities of Christ· The views expressed here do not badges can be obtained from mas. Singers are invited to join the necessarily represent the view of Janice Gist 01805 624690. choir who sing a number of highly the Association. Badges are available from the Any articles, comments to: The polished anthems. Secretary at a cost of £3.00 In the past we have been accompa­ Editor, Michael Webster, 5 Kings nied by the handbell ringers, Har­ Rydon Close, Stoke Gabriel, Tot­ nes, TQ9 6QG. 01803 782591 or via mony 400. A sound and sight you Herbert (Pickles) Pascoe will not fo rget. There will be ample Email: [email protected] time for ringing before and after the Please remember that this is your 90 years young on 11 service for members of the Devon newsletter and that your contribu­ November 2006. tions are sought. Please make use Association and the Guild of Devon­ Happy Birthday to you shire Ringers. of this newsletter.

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