The Belmont Handbell Ringers are based in Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes and are members of the Handbell Ringers of Great Britain.
About the Handbell Ringers
The Belmont Ringers came together as a group in autumn 1977 when a two octave set of 'Belleplates' was obtained. 'Belleplates' are rung exactly the same as handbells but cost only a fraction of the price.
In the spring of 2002, John Taylors, the famous and long established bellfounders in Loughborough, were commissioned to cast 26 handbells for us. It is these that we now ring and they have a beautiful tone.
The repertoire includes a variety of Christian music, classical pieces, traditional and old English folk tunes.
The team, about nine strong, has rung in concert at the invitation of a variety of organisations: Women's Institutes; a British Legion Rally; Residential Homes; Churches and chapels. In 2002 the team undertook a twelve day, five appearance tour of Sweden, ringing to a thousand people.
We practise most Monday evenings and would welcome new members - learners or experienced.
Available to Serve
We are a group of Christians who have an interest in handbell ringing. We enjoy sharing our love of ringing in concert and our love of the Lord when taking a worship service.
- Worship We have led worship in churches of several denominations. This can include the ministry of the Word as two of our members are lay preachers.
- Concerts We are also happy to ring in church and village halls, residential homes, etc, when our programme would include vocal items, monologues, etc. We regret we are unable to accept mid-week daytime engagements and we do get particularly busy on the run up to Christmas, so early booking is essential.
- Charges It is not our policy (other than in exceptional circumstances) to make any charge. However, we do request that a gift be made, or an offering taken up for the 'Cogwheel Trust International Ltd' which we support.
The group is currently not available for performances.