Real ALE

Yesterday’s St Martin’s Guild ALE (Adult Learners’ Event) was enjoyed by a number of the BSoBR Students.

After School in the morning, several of the students, tutors and helpers hot-footed it over to Sheldon to join other Guild members for the first of four towers, that had been arranged by Simon, for what has become one of the most popular events on the Guild’s calendar. Around 18 Adult Learners benefitted from the help and support of some of the more experienced ringers in the Guild at a variety of towers South East of Birmingham.

Well struck Rounds and Call Changes, Plain Hunt, and Grandsire Triples at Sheldon (8), were followed by some 12 bell ringing at Solihull (12). Participants got the chance to experience rounds (and call changes for some) with yet more experienced ringers drafted in for the higher numbers. Numbers topped 30 at this point in the afternoon. Out into the countryside and the challenge at Packwood (8) was the weight of the bells – 6cwt and the need to “handle with care”. The last tower of the day brought a different challenge. Rowington (6), rung from the chancel crossing, and a very long draught.

Thanks to Simon for his excellent organisation (as usual). Put 14th November in your diaries for the next one.