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Long Melford's young bell ringers accepted into Suffolk Guild

Linda Goodban The four young bell ringers with tutors Linda Goodban and Theresa MunfordLinda Goodban
Ewan, Seth, Kimberley and Morgan were taught to bell ring by Linda Goodban (left) and Theresa Munford (right)

Four young bell ringers have been elected to the Suffolk Guild of Ringers.

Ewan, 12, Kimberley, 12, Seth, 11, and Morgan, 11, all practice at Holy Trinity Church in Long Melford.

They began learning in 2022 and have rung bells for royal occasions, such as the coronation of King Charles III.

"They have absolutely amazed us with their tenacity and determination to learn," said tower captain Linda Goodban.

"To say we are extremely proud of our young ringers is something of an understatement. We are so lucky to have them as part of our band at Holy Trinity."

Linda Goodban The four young bell ringersLinda Goodban
Ewan, Seth, Kimberley and Morgan (L-R) were accepted into Suffolk Guild of Ringers after demonstrating their abilities at district practices

The church initially offered a summer school for young ringers in 2023 but due to the interest shown, the weekly classes have continued.

"We ended up with 10 ringers ranging from seven to 12 years of age. Not only were they learning how to handle a bell, they also learnt about change ringing, bell terminology, the mechanics of the bell and tower safety," said Ms Goodban.

Andrew Woodger/BBC Holy Trinity Church, Long MelfordAndrew Woodger/BBC
Holy Trinity is one of the larger village churches in Suffolk, built on the wealth of the medieval wool industry
Linda Goodban Young bell ringers who practice weekly at Holy Trinity ChurchLinda Goodban
Holy Trinity has 10 young bell ringers who practice weekly

Morgan was accepted into the guild at a district practice in Lavenham in January, while Ewan, Seth and Kimberley were accepted at a practice in Polstead last month.

Neal Dodge, from Suffolk Guild of Ringers, said: "We are very pleased to have these four young ringers join the guild and play their part in cherishing the unique art of change ringing.

"Change ringing has taken place in our county for over 400 years... and these young people are the future chapter of that ever-evolving story."

The guild has 650 members, more than 30 of whom are in full time education - an increase of 75% in the last year.

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