M1: 9 Feb 2019 - Arnold

It is not difficult to be enthusiastic about such a useful and well run day.

From the moment of booking the process was helpful and seamless. Gill presented the sessions in bite sized pieces, with plenty of chances to then go and practise for real, although tied bells are a slightly unnerving experience in that the movement is so inextricably linked to the music, it is quite strange without it.

Technical glitches were overcome, physical problems that arose in the bell chamber were accommodated. We all felt that there was plenty of time to practise and plenty of experienced help as Gill was ably assisted by Anne and Neil. The facilities were good, with a warm welcome from the church with tea and coffee etc available, and a lovely homemade cake in the afternoon.

A very pleasant day, that held our attention until we finished. Admittedly we came away feeling quite overwhelmed at the ground we had covered, worried that we might not remember anything but it is the start of a journey, not the end; something that Gill reminded us of too, and the pack is generously full of clear, helpful materials, and of course an introduction to the website.

Charlotte Holwell

Teaching Bell Handling

Practical advice for teachers, right from the first lesson.