January 2012

Christmas was a very busy time for us like everyone else, with three services to ring for on Christmas Eve as well as Christmas Day morning. As is normal at this time of year some bellringers were away visiting family for the festive period whereas others had family staying with them. This always makes it difficult to get enough ringers for each service, though somehow we always manage it, and this year was no exception with all 8 bells being rung for each service. I had family staying with me and the multitasking on Christmas Eve of ringing three times, cooking a ham joint, cooking dinner, eating and washing up was interesting to say the least! One of my personal Christmas highlights was James Buckle playing the trombone at the Midnight Service accompanied by Simon on the organ. I thought it one of the most beautiful pieces of music I’ve heard in a long time.

Up here in the Tower we were really delighted to hear John’s news that he is to be installed as a non-residentiary canon of Salisbury cathedral. How exciting and well deserved is that? I wasn’t actually sure how one is supposed to refer to such an event……. “canonisation” is clearly incorrect, although maybe appropriate on occasion! And “installation” to me sounded like a long awaited new boiler being installed. However I am informed that it is, indeed, “installation” is as much as John is put “in a stall”.

After I finish writing this article I am setting off to ring a Quarter Peal to coincide with the Evensong Service at Salisbury during which John’s installation as Canon takes place. We felt it would be nice for the bells of St Mary’s to be ringing out whilst the service was taking place. On Saturday we (well not me personally as it way beyond my ability!) are attempting to ring a Peal in celebration of the event too. Wish us luck!

Postscript: We didn't get the peal as one of the ringers was taken ill about 2 hours in. Re-attempt taking place beginning of March