In a fitting finale to the Fun with Bells Podcast, show host Cathy Booth gives the fondest of farewells by foraging through all 75 episodes, to figure out the answer to the second biggest question of our time - why do we ring?

Cathy riffs on six themes using some of the most memorable quotes from the 163 amazing guests she has interviewed over the past six years. In the end, it doesn’t really seem to matter whether someone’s at the early stages of ringing rounds or is scoring peals of 41 spliced major - what comes across loud and clear is the overwhelming sense of joy and discovery.

And coincidentally, or not, both the world of bell ringing and this series of podcasts share one defining characteristic, - there really is something for everyone.

All that remains, then, is an answer to the biggest question of all - which clearly is, which pub are we all going to after practice?

Sponsor: This podcast is sponsored by the Association of Ringing Teachers (ART). To find out more about learning to ring, learning to teach or other resources to support your ringing go to bellringing.org

Podcast team:
Anne Tansley Thomas
Emily Roderick
John Gwynne
Emily Watts
Cathy Booth

Ringing by:
The Cambridge Youths (supplied by David Richards) and for later episodes, The Liliputters Guild (supplied by Simon Edwards).

For bellringing training and support for teachers and ringers see: bellringing.org

Want to know the secret to successfully setting up a competition-winning young ringers’ group while also securing the long-term future of ringing? Then listen up!

In this episode, host Cathy Booth talks to Neil Jones, Jen Thomas, and Steph Runting from the Kent Young Ringers, who appear to have cracked the code!

Recorded before the 2024 Ringing World National Youth Contest, this inspirational interview provides the recipe for success. Enthusiasm is a core ingredient, along with the right amount of encouragement, support, and investment. Add the right people with the right experience into the mix. Sprinkle liberally with fun, outings, competitions, even more fun, and maybe a badge or two. And don’t forget the magic ingredient – cake!

This episode is guaranteed to remind you all of the joys of ringing.

Top five takeaways

• Want to start a young ringers’ group or put on some taster sessions? See if your church is linked to any local schools.
• Social media can be key to attracting young people – make sure you keep your platforms up-to-date with the latest news and videos
• Invest in your young ringers – see what funds are available from your local association
• Think about putting a buddy system in place where some of your more experienced younger ringers can help support the newer ones. This may even work with novice adult ringers!

For more inspiration and ideas, check out the Kent Young Ringers webpage https://kcacr.org.uk/kent-young-ringers/news

Sponsor: This podcast is sponsored by the Association of Ringing Teachers (ART). To find out more about learning to ring, learning to teach or other resources to support your ringing go to bellringing.org

Podcast team:
Anne Tansley Thomas
Emily Roderick
John Gwynne
Emily Watts
Cathy Booth

Ringing by:
The Cambridge Youths (supplied by David Richards) and for later episodes, The Liliputters Guild (supplied by Simon Edwards).

For bellringing training and support for teachers and ringers see: bellringing.org

In this delightful episode, host Cathy Booth chats with Martin Mansley, AKA Helen’s Dad, about his lifelong journey in ringing.

Born into a ringing family, Martin attended his first practice at just six weeks old and has never looked back! This engaging episode explores a variety of topics, from the Devon Guild’s 150th anniversary celebrations to the intricacies of Ellacombe Chimes and the distinctions between The Guild of Devonshire Ringers and Devon Association striking competitions.

If you’ve ever wondered about the role and benefits of Guilds and Associations in ringing, this episode makes a compelling case. It also touches on preserving traditions, fostering collaboration, and breaking new ground. Plus, after listening, you might find yourself wanting your own drone photograph!

Top takeaways

• If you’re used to raising the bells in Bristol fashion, why not experiment with ringing up Devon style?
• Interested in finding out new ways for your Association or Guild to connect directly with your ringers? Check out the Devon Guild’s new membership subscription service for some inspiration Guild of Devonshire Ringers (devonringers.org.uk)
• If you’re thinking of ways to bring your towers, districts, and associations together, how about putting together a Ringer’s Choir for your Christmas service.
• Interested in finding out more about Ellacombe Chimes take a look at the Association of Ringing Teachers website Association of Ringing Teachers :: Ellacombe chimes
• Has your tower or association got a milestone anniversary coming up? For some great ideas on how to celebrate go to the website Guild 150th Anniversary - Guild of Devonshire Ringers (devonringers.org.uk)

Podcast team:
Anne Tansley Thomas
Emily Roderick
John Gwynne
Emily Watts
Cathy Booth

Ringing by:
The Cambridge Youths (supplied by David Richards) and for later episodes, The Liliputters Guild (supplied by Simon Edwards).

For bellringing training and support for teachers and ringers see: bellringing.org