Bellringing
St Thomas' Church maintains it's long standing tradition of bell ringing each Sunday, to welcome it's congregation to church. In addition to the large church bells we also have a handbell choir as an alternative way to make music.
Church bells are rung from 10:00 to 10:30 a.m. every Sunday. Peter Randall, the Tower Captain leads the small group of ringers, and is always pleased to offer free coaching to anyone who would like to join the group on Sundays.
Like many sports and arts, there is much to learn about of Bell Ringing, but you can take everything at your own pace. Peter, who is a particularly enthusiastic ringer, often joins groups from other churches to take part in 'peals', which last for some three hours, non-stop!
Practice sessions are held in the tower on Monday from 7:30 - 8:30 p.m., but alternative arrangements may be possible. No previous experience is necessary and new starters can usually join the group on Sundays after about three practice sessions, or less. Although the bells themselves are naturally heavy, no special physical strength is necessary - except the energy to climb the tower stairs!!
Children - boys and girls - are especially welcomed, aged 11 and upwards. Please feel free to come along or call Peter on 0161 620 5421 for more details.
Our handbell group also take their skills on the road and play at schools, fetes and care homes; this is especially true around christmas when the group play popular christmas songs to entertain others. Handbell practice sesseions are held in the Choir Vestry on Monday from 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. New members are most welcome to attend.
Learning bell ringing can have it's financial rewards too. Once the basics are mastered, you can join the party of bell ringers when bells are requested for weddings, and earn £10:00. A particularly attractive proposition for children!!