This page is managed by Polly Osborne: 023 8081 2375, email osborne2368@btinternet.com.
Minstead church now has six bells. The ringers practise on Thursday evenings, 19.30 – 21.00. We ring for Sunday services, weddings and to celebrate special events such as St George’s Day. On 11 November 2018 the bells were rung half-muffled to mark the Armistice Centenary .
Contrary to popular belief, ringing bells does not require either strength or musical ability – just enthusiasm and some commitment to practise once or twice a week. Ringing is a social activity that exercises the brain as well as the body. Minstead Ringers range in age from teens to 80s. Anyone interested in finding out more is welcome to come to a Thursday evening practice – please contact Peter Bennett (023 8081 2358) or Polly Osborne (023 8081 2375).
Five peals and many quarter peals have been rung at Minstead since the sixth bell was added in August 2013. The local ringers are keen to improve their skills so they learn new methods, ring quarter peals, visit other towers and take part in striking competitions.
Our ringers are members of the Winchester and Portsmouth Diocesan Guild of Church Bell Ringers. For information on ringing activities within our district (Christchurch & Southampton) see http://wpbells.org/cs-district/
To find out more about ringing generally see the website of the Central Council of Church Bell Ringers (CCCBR): http://www.cccbr.org.uk/