We are always delighted to welcome the Ely Association young ringers AKA The Fen Tigers. They are currently practising for the Ringing World National Youth Contest which is going to be held in Nottingham on Saturday 4th July.
On Sunday the 17th May five of their number and their leaders (Dee Smith and Lesley Boyle) visited our tower to practice their skills and generally have a very enjoyable social time. A few ringers were missing, busy revising at home for forthcoming exams but those attending enjoyed some good ringing.
It was interesting to see how they have developed in the last two years. Previously, Rounds and Call Changes dominated the repertoire. This year, with some help from adult ringers this included Plain Bob Doubles and Minor and Cambridge Surprise Minor. They also included Twizzeling, where each ringer turns through 180 degrees to face outside the circle. This develops rope handling confidence and listening skills.
A refreshment break half-way through was a good chance to discuss plans for the big day and the possibility that two volunteer Fen Tigers would be loaned to the Norwich team due to shortages. This will be a reciprocol arrangement, Norwich having loaned one of their ringers in a previous competition. Its all about teamwork, networking and sharing the resource. It also builds new friendships and inter-personal skills
We had a great afternoon, it was a pleasure to ring with them. Good luck in the competition!
Quarter Peal by Visiting Band
In 30 degree temperatures on Bank Holiday Monday, 25th May 2026, a visiting band rang a quarter peal of Bourne Surprise Minor. Conuctor, Phil Bailey, had asked for the bells and we were pleased to arrange this for him.
Knowing that it would be rather warm in the rining room we set up our two verticle fans to at least move the air around. Deputy T/C, David Prest, met the ringers and made sure all was ready, and the quarter peal was successfully rung. Here is a short clip of the ringing. (Video by David Prest)
See details here: https://bb.ringingworld.co.uk/view.php?id=1974807
Great Gransden Bell Ringers 