Sheila and I love going to Ramsey to ring. The bells are an old fashioned but easy goig 13cwt six and the welcome you receive is second to none. Cathy Moulton, whom we have known for 30 years or so, is the tower captain, and after a 25 mile drive in the rain her cheery smile and welcome made it all worthwhile, especially as the last mile or so was in a new 20 mph speed zone!
We had made an arrangement with Cathy for Great Gransden ringers to attend a practice night and meet their ringers on Tuesday the 21st of May. We all piled into the ringing room where twenty ringers in all had congregated. Some were from March where there is no ringing for the time being whilst the tower is being restored. Although they have to travel a similar distance, Ramsey is an opportunity for their learners too but they also bring experience which helps raise the tecnhical standard on practice nights. Good ringing is often received with applause and all efforts are openly encouraged. It is a very happy atmosphere.
Generally speaking our ringers are at the same level as both Ramsey and March, so we fitted in very well ringing Call Changes and Plain Hunt, and the more experienced ones taking part in Kent Treble Bob Minor and Stedman Doubles. As the bells are easy going and a similar weight to our own our ringers had no problems and it was nice to ring with like-minded people, helping each other out.
The sweet tin is constantly open and was nearly exhausted by the end of the evening and there were also some free-range eggs for people to take away. We have arranged a return visit for Ramsey to come to us on the 13th of June. There will certainly be sweets, but I can’t promise eggs!!
Thank you, Ramsey, for a great evening, we look forward to seeing you soon.
Great Gransden Bell Ringers 