Villagers aged 10 and upwards in Kirkby Malzeard and Sharow are being invited to learn how to Ring for the King.

With the coronation of Charles III just three months away, Jonathan Couchman of the Two Dales ringers group, based in Wensleydale and Swaledale, is keen for new bellringers to be in place for the occasion.

Mr Couchman said:

“The online sessions will begin in mid-February and will be supplemented by hands-on training in the dales’ bell towers.

“All in the two dales are most welcome to attend but we are especially seeking new ringers for Sharow and Kirkby Malzeard.”

Bell ringers in action

Mr Couchman, added:

“The bell towers participating in this course include those at the churches of Askrigg, Aysgarth, Grinton, East Witton, Masham, Kirkby Malzeard and Sharow. People living within reach of those churches are particularly welcome to participate in the course.

The Wensleydale and Swaledale bell ringers first ran their introductory online course in 2021 and, following a successful launch, repeated the course in 2022.

For hundreds of years church bells have rung out, not only as a call to worship, but also to proclaim special events.

In June bell ringers celebrated the Queen’s platinum jubilee with the sound of bells and in September the bells rang as a mark of respect following her passing..

Mr Couchman said:

“Bell ringing is a team activity that keeps your brain active and your body agile. It does not require great strength and we have had children as young as 10 learning in Wensleydale. Many others learn in retirement.”

The online course comprises five interactive sessions that will include online ringing for all participants as well as an informative presentation. Attendees will be put in touch with a local bell tower where they will be taught hands-on bell ringing and invited to join the regular bell band.

For further information message the Wensleydale Ringers on Facebook or email David Scrutton at wensleydaleringers@gmail.com.