As with most ideas in ringing – good and bad – it started with a conversation in the pub. Post one quarter peal, the conversation turned from ringing on 10 bells to ringing on 12. The Hereford Guild does not have a ring of 12 bells within its boundaries so if we want to ring on higher numbers, it means a trip to Kidderminster, Worcester, or Shrewsbury. A little voice inside my head said, ‘why not go to Tulloch?’ but that little voice didn’t stay inside my head …. and the half-expected responses of ‘it’s a bit far’ came back as ‘now that’s a great idea’!
The Highlands Ringing Centre is a forward-thinking, purpose-built ringing training facility. It is the inspiration of its owners, Peter Bevis and Helen McGregor. Based at Tulloch Farm in the Scottish Highlands and backing on to the Nevis Range (yes, that is Ben Nevis over there …) it is in a very scenic location. There are two rings of bells – 12 (07-2-04) and 8 (03.0.21) alongside a simulator bell. All the bells are very easy and pleasant to ring. The ring of 8 was only installed in April of this year (replacing a lighter ring). There is plenty of self-catering accommodation on the farm as well as a kitchen and self-catering rooms in the ringing centre itself. It is ideal for groups to gather and ring whatever – the bells are practically inaudible outside (not that there are any neighbours to annoy).
Fast forward 12 months and a group of ringers who regularly ring at Ludlow headed north for our Scottish Odyssey.
The Ludlow band has changed somewhat in the last few years with several ringers moving into the area. So, in addition to ringing, this was an opportunity for the group to socialise and get to know each other better than we have been able to up to now.
From the ringing perspective our aim was to practice ringing, striking and rhythm on higher numbers. The week was divided into practice sessions (for all abilities) alongside quarter peal attempts and focus practices. Some made use of the simulator to practice methods and striking and, of course, there were handbells. Trips to ring at Inverness Cathedral and the majestic 10 bells at Inveraray were also arranged, enabling us to ring on different bells and experience the stunning Highlands scenery. Some of the more intrepid ventured further east of Inverness to ring on the Forres mini ringing.
We scored 12 quarter peals in the week – and lost a few more (which will give us food for thought as to how to improve) with several ‘firsts’ being recorded. The highlight was undoubtedly the quarter peal of Little Bob Maximus, which for a band that does not ring on 12 bells, was an excellent piece of ringing – a performance to be very proud of. Details of all the performances can be seen on Bellboard.
The week was a resounding success, with many wanting to know when we plan to return. It was particularly pleasing to see people develop their skills as well as seeing the group gel – with banter aplenty and the occasional dram of the amber nectar – as the week progressed. We now need to think about how we take our ringing forward – but a trip back to the Highlands is very much on the cards!
The Ringing Centre is available to anyone, however experienced you or your band may be. It’s well worth the visit!
Paul Wells