Bell ringing is a a team activity which stimulates the brain, keeps you fit and produces a glorious sound. Some do it for pleasure whilst some do it as they feel it is their contribution to the life of their church. Being part of the bell ringing community is not dependent on being a church member or for that matter as a regular attender of church services.
There are many ringers who do not worship at church and that is perfectly accepted by the ringing fraternity. Ringers of all ages and abilities are made welcome at ringing practices as well as well Sunday services. Bell ringing is a rewarding activity which brings you into contact with people of all walks of life.
Becoming a ringer opens a whole new world of experiences and friendships throughout the country. There are Guilds that are formed from organisations for example “The Guild of Clerical Ringers” the “Open University Guild” “Railway Guild” and of course many of our Universities have Guilds and these are normally affiliated to the local cathedral, Durham being just one.
Ringing competitions between the members of different Guilds These scoring is made by being judged on how well the bells are rung and point warded for each fault the winning team being the one with the lowest number of faults. These competitions are very often fiercely fought within a district and winners going forward to a national competition