Cambridge outing, March 2016

Young Ringers Outing with the ODG Young Ringers - Thursday 31st March 2016

On Thursday 31st March, a group of 15 young ringers from the Oxford Diocesan Guild (8 from Abingdon, 2 from Wargrave, and 1 each from Harwell, Bloxham, East Hagbourne, Amersham and Newbury) joined with 12 younger members of the Ely Diocesan Association to visit some of the most renowned towers in Cambridge.

After an early start followed by a long journey, we were more than happy to kick-start the ringing at St. Mary & St. Michael’s tower in Trumpington. While it was slightly cramped up in the ringing chamber, the lovely-sounding ring of eight more than made up for it. It was in this tower, after the general ringing, that some of us attempted a quarter-peal of Plain Bob Triples, composed and conducted by David Thomas. After a few tricky patches and worried looks, the band, consisting of four ODG ringers and four EDA ringers completed the ¼ successfully in 43 minutes.

Whilst some were busy up in the ringing chamber, the other young ringers were making their way to the next 6-bell tower (St. Edwards). On the way, a few teams completed a travelling quiz, for the chance to win prizes later on.

The tower of Great St. Mary came next; as a ring of 12, this was the highlight for many. Although it was sometimes a struggle to hold the bells up enough, they sounded great when struck properly. Next, there was a quick visit to St Bene’t; this ring was challenging due to the long draughts and stretchy ropes.

We then popped into Christ’s College for some well-earned refreshments and a go on a mini-ring bell. Our penultimate tower was Our Lady’s; this ring was considerably heavy (a 31cwt eight), with many boys scrambling for a go on the tenor. Finally, we headed over to St. Andrews, another 8, for our last ring of the day!

Overall, it was an incredible day out and even the weather was kind to us. Many thanks go to the Cambridge ringers and to the organisers, Alan Winter, Barbara le Gallez, Catriona Shearer and Susan Read who made this day possible. (Click the photos to see a larger version).

Sophie Martin (Age 12)