Bell ringers needed urgently to stop centuries of history falling silent

Across the UK, the number of bell ringers is falling fast. There are an estimated 38,000 bells, but only around 30,000 active ringers — and that number is shrinking every year. At the time of King Charles III’s coronation, a national appeal had to be launched to find enough ringers to mark the occasion, underlining just how at-risk this ancient tradition has become.

Nowhere is the threat more urgent than in Killamarsh, Derbyshire — where one of the most influential ringing methods in the world was born. The Killamarsh Treble Bob, developed over 100 years ago at St Giles Church, helped shape change ringing techniques across the globe.

Following the successful restoration of the church’s historic bells, funded by a £76,450 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, a special event will take place next Sunday December 7, to recruit new bell ringers and celebrate the village’s unique heritage.

From 2pm to 4pm, experienced ringers will be at the church to meet potential new recruits, explain what’s involved, and share their knowledge. Whether you’re a complete beginner or just curious about how it all works, this is a rare chance to be part of a living tradition.

Project manager Richard Godley said: "We’ve brought the bells back to life after four years of silence — but if no one steps forward to ring them, we risk losing a part of Killamarsh history. Bell ringing is uplifting, sociable, and surprisingly satisfying. We’d love people of all ages to come along on December 7 and see what it’s all about."

The event will also see the launch of a new St Giles Church history booklet, which explores more than 800 years of the church’s story — including the origins and global impact of the Killamarsh Treble Bob. Visitors can also enjoy a festive Christmas tree display, and the day will conclude with carols at 4pm.

Event – Sunday December 7 2025

St Giles Church, Kirkcroft Lane, Killamarsh S21 1AB

2pm – 4pm: Bell Ringer Discovery Session and Christmas Tree Display

4pm: Carols and community gathering.

The Central Council of Church Bell Ringers has warned that many towers across the UK are falling silent due to a national shortage of trained ringers. Fewer than 10% of current ringers are under the age of 25. Without urgent local action, one of the country’s most distinctive musical traditions may not survive.

Killamarsh is determined not to become part of that silence.

Visit www.bellringingderbyshire.org.uk for more information about bellringing in Derbyshire.

https://www.stgiles-killamarsh.org/ and Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/stgilesandstmatthews/