Early this year, it was suggested that the Alton Handbell Ringers could try hosting a summer concert with an informal atmosphere, where members of the audience would be encouraged to try their hand at bell ringing, alongside enjoying cups of tea and cakes. This would also be an opportunity to raise money to assist in our charitable donations.

And so it was, that after extensive study of the main summer sporting event calendar, the 28^th July was agreed upon as this did not clash with the Euro football competition or Wimbledon.  The concert would be held in Alton village hall.

We were unsure what the attendance would be but were pleased with the number of people there.  A group of hand bell ringers and their guests from Madeley joined our audience.

We assembled early to practice both as a full team and for twelve bell ringing which was included in...

On Monday 1st July, six of us travelled to Penkridge for their WI meeting, including a SatNav 'special' route down a country lane!

We were given a very warm welcome and, after a few bits of WI business, we rang some 12 bell pieces and explained a bit about handbells and the music, including one on handchimes. They were a very good audience and asked questions as we went along and we finished with our 'Last Night of the Proms' selection. 

After a cup of tea and a biscuit, they enjoyed having a go at playing Aura Lee. After a very pleasant evening, we packed up and came home by a less tortuous route.