Bells Beyond Belief

For the first time - at least, within living memory - St Martin's will resonate to the sound of 100+ handbells! With 20+ players and some great music, this will be an afternoon to remember.

This concert brings together players who represent 'teams' from all over the country, for an exciting demonstration of handbell ringing. The sight and sound of the massed bells will be truly spectacular. Enjoy a range of music from J S Bach to The Beatles.

Admission is FREE, with a Retiring Collection for the work of St Martin's Church.

Light refreshments will also be available in the church after the concert.

More background information:

The Handbell Ringers of Great Britain (HRGB) is a national organisation that promotes tune ringing on handbells. HRGB was formed in 1967 but such tune ringing has been around for well over two centuries. Initially, church bell ringers, keen to practise the art of change ringing, produced miniature bells, which could be rung in the local pub or one's home. With time, however, tuning techniques improved and the handbell was increasingly used for playing tunes. Big groups formed, mainly in the north of England, to perpetuate the tune-ringing tradition, playing music by Sousa and Strauss, and doing so throughout the year.