January is traditionally a quiet
month for the handbell ringers after all the excitement of our Christmas
performances.

We allow ourselves a short break
and then meet together for a post Christmas meal. This year we returned to Galo’s
and a very enjoyable evening was had by those who attended. It also gave new
members an opportunity to mix away from the frantic rehearsals.

Practices started again in
earnest on 16 January and we welcomed two new recruits, Colin and Janet, in
addition to Andy, Diane and Geoff who had joined late in 2018.

Claire, our esteemed musical
director, has devised some exercises for the beginnings of practices to help us
all with our technique and timing. These proved very successful as well as fun.

We do not have any events planned
until May and are confident that by then we will be able to ring all three
octaves again on a regular basis.

After much discussion we are now
running a trial of practising just on Wednesdays which should produce a better
turn out. These will continue to be in the vestry except for when there are
services such as on Ash Wednesday and in Holy Week when we will move into
Church House.

Despite our improving numbers we
still welcome new members at any time.