Thread: AS: Bell Ringers Meet in honour of St Simeon--Sat 22 July Board: Limbo / Ship of Fools.


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Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
Belisarius posted here in The Styx to mark the Boards' Fifth Birthday. I wondered if we'd be able to get a band of Shipmates together to ring a celebratory QP somewhere? I really like the quirky idea of mixing the old and new communication technologies. And drafting a suitable Society name and footnote for the Ringing World.

Problem: I'm only a mere novice at this but I'm happy to cover or TH to doubles, or stand aside if the Ship can pull together a Surprise Major band from out of the hold.

Plan: We would need a volunteer conductor and band, then a method and tower location to fit the highest common factor. Beer and food to follow, presumably.

Any takers for this novel Shipmeet?

Q.
ETA ....and to celebrate my 250th post

[edited on OP'er request]

[ 12. May 2007, 08:01: Message edited by: Alan Cresswell ]
 

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Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 
I'm very much a lapsed ringer, but managed to come out of retirement to ring a QP of Grandsire Caters for a friend's wedding a couple of years ago. So depending on time, method, location, etc. I might be able to help out.
 

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Posted by ecumaniac (# 376) on :
 
I'm dreadfully offended to see that you don't consider me to be a *real* ringer.

I once enquired about joining the tower ringing team but they wanted a level of committment I couldn't give.
 

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Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
I'm sorry you're offended.

I did try to get a into the thread title, but it won't work. And perhaps I should have included a "UK" in the title as well.

Maybe the handbell ringers on board could do something, as well?

Q.
 

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Posted by Schroedinger's cat (# 64) on :
 
Real bellringers don't use their hands??

Sorry - nothing useful to contribute. But it does sound like a fun idea.
 

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Posted by babybear (# 34) on :
 
Why do you not consider handbells to be 'real'?

A friend from university used to pull the ropey thing on the big bells, but she and her fellow ringers used to practise all of their 'moves' on handbells.
 

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Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by babybear:
Why do you not consider handbells to be 'real'?

A friend from university used to pull the ropey thing on the big bells, but she and her fellow ringers used to practise all of their 'moves' on handbells.

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<sigh>

For the avoidance of doubt: I have nothing against handbells; some of my best friends are handbells; I have no problem having handbells living in our town; I was ringing rounds on 6 vintage handbells only last night.

Just yanking the chain a bit, with an in-joke.

For our normal readers: handbells can be used for change-ringing, same as tower bells with the ropes and a fluffy bit. When used as such, like BB's friend, they are a superb art form in their own right. Handbells can also be used for playing recognisable choons and there is a friendly rivalry and co-operation between the two traditions.

OK?

Back to the OP - I'll consider PMing un-dormant Shipmates owning up to campanolgical skills in their profiles.

Q.

[ 23. May 2006, 16:10: Message edited by: Qoheleth. ]
 

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Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
I'm happy to ring rounds, but I get in a muddle with all that mixed-up stuff.

(Oh, and put me down for the handbells as well. I expect Garfield will join in.)
 

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Posted by Adrian1 (# 3994) on :
 
Personally I'd be happier ringing a few rounds and call changes - or possibly Plain Hunt on a low number such as five or six. I'm alright trebling to Grandsire or Plain Bob so long as nobody calls any Bobs or Singles. If you want a QP the only place for me is tenor behind! I suppose we could do it in an eight bell tower and have Grandsire Doubles with three covers, assuming there were enough 'inside' ringers for Doubles!
 

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Posted by Ricardus (# 8757) on :
 
I'd be interested - depending on location of course.

Don't know about Surprise Major apart from Cambridge, but I can do a few of the easier kinds of Surprise Minor ...
 

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Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Adrian1:
I'm alright trebling to Grandsire or Plain Bob so long as nobody calls any Bobs or Singles.

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quote:

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If you want a QP the only place for me is tenor behind!

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You've got the job

I'd be up for this. I suggested a ship quarter a few years ago but got little response, but as there are a few more of us around these days it could be a possibility.
 

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Posted by Ancient Mariner (# 4) on :
 
This looks a great idea which, if it comes off, could make a good story for the media.

For that we would need a Bellringers Behaving Badly angle - I recall a shipmate, one balmy Sunday evening, being certain they heard Frankie's 'Relax...' wafting over some quiet Chiltern Hills.


 

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Posted by babybear (# 34) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Qoheleth.:
there is a friendly rivalry and co-operation between the two traditions.

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Ah! Thanks for the explaination.

bb
 

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Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
OK... in addition to those posting so far, Sarum Sleuth has PMed, "a pretty competent conductor on all numbers". But he also works alternate Saturdays.

So far:

Qoheleth - PH on 6, cover to anything
The Great Gumby - Grandsire Caters
Chorister - rounds (and handbells )
Adrian1 - PH on 6, cover
Ricardus - Cambridge major
Spike - anything & (C)
Sarum Sleuth - anything & (C)

There are a few more PMs pending reply and other possible ringing Shipmates who don't advertise their condition.

Some of us may know other Shipmates as ringers IRL, without realising it on Board.

As an adult learner, who's only been at it 3 yrs, I'll leave all the technical stuff to experienced conductors and QP arrangers, like SS and Spike. I guess we need a date, a tower with reasonably easy bells somewhere near the "centre of gravity" of the band and a method to suit the volunteers.

Over to the experts - I just started the thread.

Q.
 

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Posted by Carys (# 78) on :
 
Another ringer reporting in. I've rung two QPs, trebling to bob doubles and granny triples. My one attempt inside (with a band from Church despite the fact we have one bell operated by push-button) didn't work due to most people being thoroughly out of practice. I can ring Bob Doubles, Minor and Granny Doubles inside and on a good day manage Bob Major. I can also Treble Hunt (though I've not done any of that of late).

Where would be a good place? Londonish looks good given Ricardus is in Cambridge and Sarum Sleuth and Spike are in London and I seem to be over that side of the country a fair amount.

ETA: On the thread title, maybe `Tower bell ringers' would have been better.

[ 23. May 2006, 22:56: Message edited by: Carys ]
 

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Posted by Nunc Dimittis (# 848) on :
 
*puts hand up* Cambridge Surprise Minor, anything Bob, Triples or Doubles. I could treble hunt for anything Major.

Might be a bit rusty, though; the two towers here in Brisvegas don't ring anything more complicated than rounds and call changes, and the reports I heard of the politics put me off ever ringing in this city!

Oh for the well-belled towers of Sydney!!!
 

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Posted by Ye Olde Motherboarde (# 54) on :
 
I'm so impressed with all of you. I've always wanted to do be a bell ringer. When I hear the peal at the National Cathedral in DC, it gives me shivers!
 

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Posted by Lou Fourty-Two (# 2578) on :
 
Hello people, I'm a long-term lurker (used to post a bit, but haven't for years) and a ringer. I'll help out with a quarter if I'm wanted/needed, given I can get there! Could manage Surprise Majory stuff. I ring handbells too (though not poncey tunes, obviously... )
 

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Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 
I should say I'm also capable of Surprise methods, generally Minor, although I could probably manage Major given enough warning. I've conducted quarters of PB and Grandsire Doubles, but given my rustiness, I didn't think it was worth mentioning. There are definitely better candidates for conductor. And I can Treble Bob on just about any number.

On location, how many bells are we after? I know a couple of good, easy 6-bell towers in Beds which I'd be able to get hold of, and shouldn't have too much difficulty with an 8 in the same area either. Bedfordshire seems fairly central to most of the locations I've noticed on the thread, easy to get to, and there might even be facilities available locally for those who wanted/needed to stay overnight.
 

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Posted by Magnum Mysterium (# 3418) on :
 
Hmmm, I ring the right sort of bells, but in the wrong country! Would be delighted to join if it were possible.

Am handling the easy minor methods quite well, and am looking to progress to Stedman fairly soon...
 

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Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
So far:

Chorister - rounds
Adrian1 - PH dbles, cover
Qoheleth - PH dbles, cover to anything
Carys - PB major, (treble bob hunt?)
Ricardus - Cambridge major
The Great Gumby - Surprise major
lou42 - Surprise major
Spike - anything & (C)
Sarum Sleuth - anything & (C)

So there's a Cambridge minor band for starters.
I'm in North Hampshire, btw, so London or Beds is ok for me, too.

Oz Chapter:
Nunc Dimittis - Cambridge minor, TB to major
Magnum Mysterium - minor

Q.
 

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Posted by luvanddaisies (# 5761) on :
 
I thought this was an english-language website - you lot are as bad as organists (possibly worse ).

[sounds like a cool idea though. Wonder if Radio 4's "Bells on Sunday" would be up for popping along so we can all hear it ]
 

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Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 
I just realised that if we could get a strong enough band, a quarter for the Ship's birthday would be the ideal time to ring Titanic Cinques! (Scroll to the bottom for quarter composition)
 

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Posted by jedijudy (# 333) on :
 
[tangent]OK, for those of us with no tower bells (there's only a carillon about two hours drive from here) and only handbells at our disposal, where do we get the patterns for these interesting sounding peals? I'd like to know about this "Bob" thing, and the "Major" and "Minor". The "Surprise" one has a really great name! [/tangent]
 

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Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
\tangent <CONT>\
here are some good clear diagrams.

If you can ring these ....

Q.
\tangent <OFF>\
 

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Posted by Roxanna (# 9639) on :
 
Another ringer answering the call

I'm currently trying to master Grandsire triples and treble bobbing to minor methods and can plain hunt on up to eight bells.

(I'm in Derby, btw)
 

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Posted by Banner Lady (# 10505) on :
 
When exactly is the ship's birthday? What a great meet to set up - let's hope an audio comes out of this so we can all enjoy it!
 

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Posted by jedijudy (# 333) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Qoheleth.:
\tangent <CONT>\
here are some good clear diagrams.

If you can ring these ....

Q.
\tangent <OFF>\

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Thanks! Now maybe I can be less confused!
 

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Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by The Great Gumby:
Titanic Cinques

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quote:

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Originally posted by Banner Lady:
When exactly is the ship's birthday? What a great meet to set up - let's hope an audio comes out of this so we can all enjoy it!

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The Ship's launch day is April Fools Day (1998)
THE boards in their current form were launched 22 May (2001)

from thread linked in OP

Hopefully, we can get an MP3 taken and posted. A quarter peal lasts about 45 mins and consists of around 1260 changes, each one unique.

Hopefully.

Q.
 

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Posted by ecumaniac (# 376) on :
 
It all sounds very cool. (BTW I wasn't really offended )

Sigh. I miss ringing. Everyone in our team had choral or band backgrounds so we preferred ringing off table from full scores with our notes marked with coloured highlighters.
 

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Posted by Ancient Mariner (# 4) on :
 
Don't forget the coolest saint in all Christendom – St Simeon the Holy Fool - whose Feast Day we celebrate every 21st July.
 

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Posted by Amorya (# 2652) on :
 
I'm up for it if there's space. I can do bob minor fairly well, and treble/tenor to other stuff. Never rang a quarter before but I'd love to have a go

Amorya
 

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Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Qoheleth.:
Spike - anything & (C)

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quote:

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Originally posted by Spike:
..this looks like a brilliant idea. Even if we can't muster enough for a quarter, I reckon we've got enough to form our own guild.

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The St Simeon Guild of Change Ringers... Hmm sounds good.

Q.
 

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Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
Sorry for DP:

The Saturday nearest the Feast of St Simeon is July 22nd, also the Feast of Mrs Jesus

Can Shipmates please indicate availability for that day?

Q.
 

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Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 
*bump* for those who might have missed it.

I'm available on 22nd July.

[ 31. May 2006, 14:06: Message edited by: The Great Gumby ]
 

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Posted by Ricardus (# 8757) on :
 
I'm probably available then, but by then my location will have changed from "Cambridge" to "Liverpool, Capital of the Universe" (or something like that).
 

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Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
**bump**

It appears that Sarum Sleuth is the most experienced conductor on board & he is available on 22nd July.

Can ringing Shipmates please indicate their availability here asap? Tower location & method/s can then be settled, based on locations of those confirming. We'd hope to give everyone a go at something, even if not a QP.

Thanks,
Q
 

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Posted by Carys (# 78) on :
 
Ooops, I forgot to post after I'd checked with my boyfriend. I am available on that day and will be in Cambridge that weekend so could easily pop down to London for example.

Carys
 

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Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
I have another engagement in Creamtealand on the 22nd. If you heard me ring, you'd probably be quite relieved.

Good Luck. If there is a favourable wind I'll listen out for you!
 

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Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
22nd should be OK for me too.
 

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Posted by Lou Fourty-Two (# 2578) on :
 
I don't think I'll be able to make it if it's in Bedfordshire because I've got a few too many commitments in the Midlands at the moment (and too little money, for that matter! )

Sorry about that. Hope everyone has a good time without me!
 

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Posted by Roxanna (# 9639) on :
 
Apologies for not posting sooner, I've been away on holiday.

I'm available on 22 July, with the following caveats;

1) Limited ringing ability
2) Access to location by public transport
 

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Posted by Ricardus (# 8757) on :
 
Should be available, but in Liverpool, and restricted to public transport.
 

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Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
Roll call so far, with some presumptions, with apologies if I've got anything wrong:

Qoheleth - N Hants - can travel
Ricardus - Liverpool - public tpt
Roxanna - unknown - public tpt
Spike - London - can travel
Carys - Cambridge - can travel
TGG - Beds - can travel
Sarum Sleuth - London - can travel (C)

So, does Bedfordshirelook like a good location? I guess car drivers can be deputed to meet non-crivers at the nearest bus/train station.

Still to confirm availability:
Amorya - Up Norf (?Warwick)
Adrian1 - ?

Next time:
Lou 42
Chorister

Cheers,
Q.
 

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Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 
Sorry, just to say I'm actually in Norwich. It's just that I can get hold of some nice bells in Beds, as that seemed relatively central. All fine otherwise - carry on!
 

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Posted by Carys (# 78) on :
 
Bedfordshire and public transport from Cam is a nightmare. Well it is when you hate long distance buses. I know someone who used to cycle from Bedford to Cambridge fairly regularly but I'm not sure that's a good plan with a quarter too (though I've done cycling and ringing tours before now). I might have car access, but that depends on how my boyfriend feels as he has ME.

It slightly depends on where in Bedfordshire too.

Carys
 

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Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 
OK, the tower I was thinking of is a nice, recently augmented 9cwt 6, fairly near to Bedford. As I'd be coming from Norwich, I might be able to give lifts from Cambridge (I should be more or less passing through), and collection from Bedford station shouldn't be a problem either for anyone else w/o car.

But it was only a suggestion, so if somewhere else would be more convenient for those who are coming, I'll go with that.
 

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Posted by Amorya (# 2652) on :
 
Sorry guys, I'm not available for this one

Next time?
 

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Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
Depends where in Bedfordshire. I can get to Bedford direct on the Thameslink from these parts. Apart from that, my geography of Beds is non existent.
 

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Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 
As mentioned above, the tower's near to Bedford, lifts to and from Bedford station easily arranged. Still waiting to see where we're all coming from, though.
 

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Posted by Ancient Mariner (# 4) on :
 
This Ring of Fools meet now linked from home page.

Let us know the full list of participants and where they are coming from (when available) and a running order of tunes. I can then send out a media release. Also, is anyone making a video diary of this event? Hope so...



[ 19. June 2006, 11:00: Message edited by: Ancient Mariner ]
 

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Posted by Carys (# 78) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Ancient Mariner:
and a running order of tunes.

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Tunes? TUNES? We ring methods (or possibly principles) not tunes.

Have we decided on a method?

Carys
 

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Posted by seasick (# 48) on :
 
'elp you breathe more easily...
 

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Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
I've Bumped this up to SS, who offered to conduct. No way am I qualified (see above, passim) to judge what we can hold together as a scratch band. After AM's build-up, we don't want to be too ambitious and not get the QP! Trying to interpret peoples' expertise, conformed to 6 bells, and summarising:

Qoheleth - PH doubles allsorts
Ricardus - Cambridge
Roxanna - treble bob +?
Spike - anything
Carys - PBD?
TGG - Surprise
Sarum Sleuth - (C)

Please advise if I've under- or over-interpreted your skills.

Do people want a morning and afternoon QP? But I'm quite happy to ring in a touch and then listen to 45 mins of splendid Surpise minor

Still to confirm availability:
Adrian1 - (PMd)

Any other takers out there to help to make up a second band?
Ringing Lurkers - register now! and sign up.

Should be fun,
Cheers,
Q.

[ 20. June 2006, 01:47: Message edited by: Kelly Alves ]
 

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Posted by Ancient Mariner (# 4) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Carys:

quote:

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Originally posted by Ancient Mariner:
and a running order of tunes.

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Tunes? TUNES? We ring methods (or possibly principles) not tunes.

Carys

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quote:

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Originally posted by Qoheleth.:
Carys - PBD?

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PB Doubles and Minor. TBH I'm happier with Minor these days. Though I've rung Doubles the last couple of Sundays and was fine once I'd remember long fifths! Granny Doubles (though I got bored of being observation bell tonight). I think I've cracked Bob Major too now (not that that's relevant if we're at a 6 bell tower).

Possibly treble-bobbing, but I've not done that in Cardiff so I'm rather out of practice. I might get a chance at that again this weekend though.

Carys
 

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Posted by Roxanna (# 9639) on :
 
Hi

Hope you aren't overestimating my ringing skills.

I have rung a quarter of plain bob minor, and the treble to quarters of treble bob minor methods, but after a coupe of years of not ring very much am trying to remember grandsire singles.

I have no difficulty getting to Bedford by train though
 

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Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
SS has returned & confirmed the date. He'll be along soon to sort out the ringing, I hope, with the likely band. We seem to have seven as a Shipmates band Does anyone know any sympathetic lurkers/ associate members? SS is happy to ring an am and pm QP if that seems right.

TGG - it seems that Beds is as good a place as any. Can you book the bells, please, and give us a name for Dove & to plan transport etc?

AM - The tradition would be to call this a Quarter Peal attempt (cf Everest), since completion is not a foregone conclusion. It's usual for media contact to be made after a successful achievement.

Q.
 

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Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 
Tower duly booked. For those who want to look it up in Dove, it's St Mary's Carlton, Beds. Depending on the vintage of your copy, it might be listed as a 4 or 5, but it's now a very nice 9cwt 6. If anyone wants more info, let me know (PM would probably be best). There's also a good Free House pub nearby, which used to do reasonable food - I'll check on that, but I'm sure it still does good beer!

SS, if you're thinking of two attempts, do you want to split them across two towers, like a mini outing? There's another 6 in the neighbouring village I could probably lay my hands on, as they've got the same tower captain. Carys, let me know if you need a lift. I'm happy to help, but if you're OK to travel, I might see if I can stay over with family nearby. And does anyone have the necessary equipment to make a video diary, as suggested by AM? At the very least, it might be worth an article for Ringing World.
 

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Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
Thanks, TGG.

I will probably be coming over from Harlow (Essex) that morning, so could collect people on route, including Bishops Stortford (for the Cambridge train) and Bedford and points in between.

No video available, but I'm a dab hand with the stills.

Q.
 

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Posted by Ancient Mariner (# 4) on :
 
St Mary's looks like the perfect church.
 

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Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Ancient Mariner:
St Mary's looks like the perfect church.

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Wow, didn't take you long to find a picture! Yes, it's a lovely church, with some very nice bells.
 

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Posted by Ancient Mariner (# 4) on :
 
TGG, how about writing a few sentences on this event for me - motivation for it, your own personal 'history' of bell-ringing (what happened during your favourite or worst ever session of bell-ringing, for example) and how much you're looking forward to meeting shipmates for the first time, things that could go wrong on the day etc.

I'll then put out a release - which may or may not get some coverage. We can but try...



[ 27. June 2006, 11:01: Message edited by: Ancient Mariner ]
 

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Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 
Surely that honour falls to Qoheleth, as the originator of the thread?
 

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Posted by Ancient Mariner (# 4) on :
 
Comments from you both would be great...


 

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Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
I'll put some words together soon. But I've got only a short history and no great anecdotes, so everyone else chip in too, & AM can redact them.

As one storyline, I note that the tenor is 1490 and listed. Has it been at Carlton for over 500yrs? Does TGG know if there is more to be said?

AM: this link gives you some editorial background on our arcane activities.
This link is to Dove, with obsessively techie info on S Mary, Carlton.

PS - Adrian1 has PMd to present his apologies.

Q.

[ 27. June 2006, 22:09: Message edited by: Qoheleth. ]
 

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Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Qoheleth.:
As one storyline, I note that the tenor is 1490 and listed. Has it been at Carlton for over 500yrs? Does TGG know if there is more to be said?

---

I'll need to check, but I think the bells have all been there since they were cast. I'll see if I can dig out any more info, though. I once did a small project on the history of the bells, but I can't remember for the life of me where it got to.

Sadly, not too many brilliant stories from me either, although I've heard loads about some of the people I've rung with in the past. I'll see what I can pull together.
 

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Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
Sorry for not getting back before, but I've been offline for a while.

Do we have a method yet? If we can get a full band, probably Grandsire Triples is the safest bet. What does anyone else think?
 

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Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
Errr... currently we have seven volunteers and a nice 9 cwt six booked. Both of which mitigate against GS Triples. But things can change...

Q.
 

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Posted by Petrified (# 10667) on :
 
You may be interested in this http://www.emmausvillagecarlton.org.uk/Index.htm
I'm told it is a good place for lunch.
It was founded by a very old (I have known Dom G since I was 6) and dear friend (RIP ) who married us 21 years ago.
 

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Posted by Roxanna (# 9639) on :
 
I'm content to be considered as a reserve, if I get one of those "wishes to be associated with the quarter" footnotes in the comic (assuming success).
 

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Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 

quote:

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Originally posted by Qoheleth.:
Errr... currently we have seven volunteers and a nice 9 cwt six booked. Both of which mitigate against GS Triples. But things can change...

Q.

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quote:

---

Originally posted by The Great Gumby:
Carys, let me know if you need a lift. I'm happy to help, but if you're OK to travel, I might see if I can stay over with family nearby.

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quote:

---

And does anyone have the necessary equipment to make a video diary, as suggested by AM? At the very least, it might be worth an article for Ringing World.

---

We have a video camera somewhere and even our digital camera has some video facility.

Carys
 

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Posted by Sarum Sleuth (# 162) on :
 
As regards the method, Bob Minor sounds good to me. However, as there are 7 people I think we ought to attempt two quarters if possible to give everyone a fair chance. Perhaps make the second one doubles?

What do people think?

SS
 

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Posted by Ricardus (# 8757) on :
 
Sorry, I've been away for a while.

What times are we looking at? The nicest train from Liverpool, from the point of view of departure time and price, arrives at Bedford at 12.51.
 

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Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 
SS, I think minor and doubles sounds good. I'd have thought one in the morning, one in the afternoon, but it seems that the morning would cause Ricardus some problems. Any interest in adjourning to the next village for attempt number 2? As I said, no problem getting the bells. Although there isn't anything else going on that day, I'd like to confirm when we're going to be needing the bells ASAP.
 

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Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
Well, might it work perhaps if I ring doubles in the morning, and then swap with Ricardus for minor in the afternoon? However, that assumes that the remaining five want 2 QPs. Are there any ringing associate members around?

I've confirmed that I will be travelling from Harlow, so I can pick people up en route if needed.

Q.
 

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Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 
If necessary, I could probably drum up a "ringer" or two. I think it would be much nicer if we could make this a legit SoF affair, though.

What's likely to be en route for you, Qoheleth? Just so everyone knows roughly where you're passing through. If you're going in the general direction of Cambridge, maybe we (Keren-Happuch will be coming for the ride) could take Carys one way and you could take her the other?

Also, would Emmaus (suggested upthread) be OK with everyone for lunch? The downside would be an absence of beer, but we could probably make up for that at the end of the day. Otherwise, there are pubs which do good food for lunch in nearby villages. Any opinions?
 

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Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
I agree that it would be splendid to maintain 100% SoF band, but with 7 ringers attempting 2 QPs, that has to be ok for 5 of them (not me ). I was wondering any lurkers or partners might emerge from the undergrowth?

Travel-wise, Harlow-B Stortford-Cambs-Snots-Beds would work for Carys. However, if she does drive, I could vary that. Either way, I would have at least 2 seats available to meet trains at Bedford. I'm happy to nip back to the station to collect Ricardus when he arrives.

Food-wise, no strong views either way. ISTM it would be nice to grab a 2nd tower after lunch.

Q.
 

---

Posted by Sarum Sleuth (# 162) on :
 
Surely we need some beer at lunchtime what with all the stress of the quarter attempt!

SS
 

---

Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Qoheleth.:
Travel-wise, Harlow-B Stortford-Cambs-Snots-Beds would work for Carys. However, if she does drive, I could vary that. Either way, I would have at least 2 seats available to meet trains at Bedford. I'm happy to nip back to the station to collect Ricardus when he arrives.

---

Likewise, we could collect arrivals at the station. Again, at least two spare seats. That should cover everyone coming by train, I think.

I'll see about obtaining a neighbouring 6 for the afternoon for a grab, then. I think that should be fairly easily done. If we're doing that, and bearing in mind SS's stated preference, The Bell at Odell should be a good option for lunch.
 

---

Posted by Ancient Mariner (# 4) on :
 
So... I need comments for the release re:

* Numbers coming and from where
* Motivation for event
* How long it will last
* What St Simeon would make of it

I need comments by Monday Monday (17 July) 11 am. PM or post up here.

Thanks


 

---

Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 
Don't know about anything else, but:

quote:

---

Originally posted by Ancient Mariner:
* What St Simeon would make of it

---

I reckon he'd think we've turned foolishness into an art form.
 

---

Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
To AM: (but others add their contribution, too, please)

* Numbers coming and from where
Probably seven from Basingstoke, Liverpool, Norwich, Cambridge, London.... A wide range of experience - longest: SS? n yrs, Q a novice of 3 yrs and all in between.

* Motivation for event
- Celebrate fifth anniversary of SoF BBs
- Conjunction of old and new forms of communication. The oldest bell in the tower has been calling parishoners to worship at Carlton since 1490.
- Beer, like any other meet
- Meet other shipmates IRL, like any other meet
- Do something purposeful with other shipmates IRL (are there other "affinity" meets? musicians? quilters? artists and campers, I think etc)
- Food, like any other meet
- Challenge of ringing on unknown bells with unknown people
- Beer
- Food

* How long it will last
- Hopefully we will attempt 2 quarter peals of 45 mins each, in two different towers
- currently looks like one QP each of Plain Bob Minor and one of ??mixed doubles. All venerable traditional methods, dating back over 200 yrs rung by members of the 21st cent. virtual Internet community that is SoF
- Depends on the skills of ringers who have never met or rung together before.

* What St Simeon would make of it
- Hmm..

We hope to have photos and MP3 to record the event.

AM, recognising that this runs counter to typical media practice, please note that it is thought inauspicious (nay, bad form )in some quarters to issue a press release for a peal attempt in advance, due to the risk of failure. Celebratory pieces are more usual after the event.

Q.

[ 14. July 2006, 14:51: Message edited by: Qoheleth. ]
 

---

Posted by Carys (# 78) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Ricardus:
Sorry, I've been away for a while.

What times are we looking at? The nicest train from Liverpool, from the point of view of departure time and price, arrives at Bedford at 12.51.

---

But will it? Helpfully, there's a train strike from 12noon on the Friday until 1159 on the Saturday. I think I'll end up travelling to Cambridge on the Thursday rather than the Friday as we'd planned.

A lift from Cam from someone would be useful.

Carys
 

---

Posted by Ricardus (# 8757) on :
 
Bugger.

OTOH, if I use National Express, I can get into Bedford bus station at 1.30pm. Is that still feasible?
 

---

Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
To Ricardus:

1) Such threatened rail strikes have a tendency not actually to happen.

2) If not so, I would guess that between us we can ensure that your trip is feasible and worthwhile.


To TGG:

I would prefer to detour from Harlow to collect Carys from Cambs first thing, if you can return her? Then I can head straight back to Basingstoke in the evening. Is that ok with you?


Q.
 

---

Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
Can anyone give me a lift from Bedford?
 

---

Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 
Right, I've got a second tower provisionally booked for the afternoon. Awaiting final confirmation of that, but I'll publish details here once it's settled.

Qoheleth, the reason I was enquiring about the return journey for Carys was the possibility of staying over with family, mentioned waaaay upthread. If that would be a problem, I might as well give Carys a lift in both directions, as it's more or less en route. Just thought I'd ask.

Spike, collecting you from the station will be no problem. Let us know when you're going to be arriving (presumably related to when we're planning to meet up at Carlton), and we'll make sure someone can come and collect you. Mobile phones might be useful.
 

---

Posted by Ancient Mariner (# 4) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Qoheleth.:
AM, recognising that this runs counter to typical media practice, please note that it is thought inauspicious (nay, bad form )in some quarters to issue a press release for a peal attempt in advance, due to the risk of failure. Celebratory pieces are more usual after the event.

Q.

---

I will desist if you wish - it's your gig - but without a heads-up release ahead of time to, say, the local radio and newspapers (our primary targets) there is little hope of any coverage after the event.

Let me know what you want me to do - or not. Possible failure - and documenting the learning process through it - is surely part of the fun and has definite media appeal.
 

---

Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
To AM:
I'm still a newbie here, and I don't want to get things wrong . Perhaps the Everest analogy was a mistake! Ringing-technical-wise, we're doing no more than a walk in the park.

To all:
What do the rest of the band think of the ringing etiquette here, please? Having just lost a QP tonight, allegedly because I did the ringing equivalent of mentioning The Scottish Play, maybe I'm over-sensitive. Also, please add some contributions for AM's piece.

To TGG:
Apologies, I had mis-read your post upthread. Regrettably, Cambridge is not really on the way home to Basingstoke. I'll arrange the rendezvous with Spike, then. And Roxanna, when she shows up. Need to confirm start times with SS.

Thanks
Q.
 

---

Posted by Sarum Sleuth (# 162) on :
 
The time of the attempts would be useful. I'll probably come by motorbike.

SS
 

---

Posted by Chelley (# 11322) on :
 
Though I've never rung anything more complicated than a doorbell before, I hope it's ok to offer a thought here! An excellent idea by the way, and in terms of the question of media etc would it be possible to focus the release around it being a special anniversary shipmeet, St. Simeon, the old (bells) and the new (net community) bits... and then say about the bellringers of the Ship attempting (whatever it is they will attempt) and saying something like "though of course it's bad bellringing form to mention the attempt beforehand" so it's not the main focus (of the release at least)?

Sorry if that just seems to repeat what's already been said... I know what I was trying to get at anyway!
And hope you all have a great day
 

---

Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 
Good thought, Chelley. I think something like that would be a reasonable compromise, allowing AM to get some publicity out without tempting fate too much. Can I suggest meeting up at 11? That should give everyone enough time to get there without getting up too early. A little time to ring up, then attempt the QP and it would be lunchtime more or less. If we got going promptly, we might be able to have another go if it fired out early.

AM, I'll try to get some info together in a PM for you shortly.

Carys, if you send me a PM of where to find you, we can probably start arranging collection details. Directions would be helpful, but I can look it up on Multimap otherwise.
 

---

Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
11 am is fine with me. And 2.30 - 3pm for the afternoon, once Ricardus has arrived - train/bus permitting?

AM: Ok - as Chelley and TGG suggest. I'll PM my phone number for any other queries. We'll leave the specialist ringing press until afterwards, but perhaps we could use your copy?

Cheers,
Andy
 

---

Posted by Sarum Sleuth (# 162) on :
 
11am is fine for me and 2.30 for the afternoon one allows ample time for lunch. As regards advance publicity, I suppose it is ok to let the press know that it is happening, but it does need to be stressed that the outcome is not guaranteed. I'm pretty experienced at calling things, but would not want to predict a succesful outcome even so. And anyway, a rope might break!

SS
 

---

Posted by Ancient Mariner (# 4) on :
 
For immediate release

COMPUTING MEETS CAMPANOLOGY AS BELL-RINGERS
HEAD TO BEDFORDSHIRE TO CELEBRATE HOLY FOOL

(LONDON – 18/7/06) -- FEWER THINGS are sillier than standing in a circle pulling ropes – and none that breeds such enthusiastic, obsessive devotion in so many people.

That’s how David Ward views one of the most unusual events of the summer – a special bell-ringing meeting this Saturday (11am, 22 July). A quarter peal will be attempted in honour of St Simeon, the holy fool, patron saint of UK webzine, shipoffools.com.

Seven bell-ringing readers are meeting for the first time at St Mary the Virgin, Carlton, Bedfordshire having set out at the crack of dawn from Basingstoke, Liverpool, Norwich, Cambridge and London.

‘Bell-ringing really does raise foolishness to an art form,’ says David. ‘It is a fitting way to honour St Simeon. I haven’t met any fellow readers of shipoffools.com (known as shipmates) in real life. Like bell-ringers they are known for being friendly and strange in equal measure. A meeting of bell-ringing shipmates could be extraordinary.’

The oldest bell in the tower at St Mary, Carlton has been calling parishioners to worship since 1490, so Saturday’s experiment is a unique meeting of old and new forms of communication - computing and campanology.

‘Absolutely anything could go wrong on the day,’ admits David, who has been bell-ringing since he was 11. ‘One of us could forget the method, or just start daydreaming – imagine paying complete attention for an entire 45-minute lesson at school! Or a bell-rope could even break! It doesn’t happen very often, but they have to stop several hundredweight of bell at every stroke, and they can be under a lot of strain.’

Each year, shipoffools.com celebrates the feast of St Simeon who played the fool to mock the idiocy of the world - and to conceal his identity as a saint. His behaviour was eccentric and scandalous. During church services, he threw nuts at the clergy. On solemn fasting days he consumed vast amounts of beans – with predictable and hilarious results.

Such behaviour is unlikely at St Mary on Saturday – ‘but if all else fails, we’ll have had a good meet, and most people will have “grabbed” a couple of towers (rung at a tower where they hadn’t before),’ says David. ‘In fact, what could be more foolish than travelling across the country for a day of pulling on ropes and ending up with nothing concrete to show for it? Maybe that would be the ultimate way to honour St Simeon…’

(ends)
 

---

Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 
Just got confirmation on the second tower, for the afternoon, which is St Peter and All Saints, Harrold. Dove details can be found here.
 

---

Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
Does anyone know if the threatened train strike is still going ahead? If it is, that could cause serious problems for me.
 

---

Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
This and this give the current state of play. Ricardus was also envisaging problems. These strikes sometimes peter out at the last moment.

I would guess that the roads will be pretty well choked as well. Without thinking of the temperature!

Watch this space?

Q
 

---

Posted by Roxanna (# 9639) on :
 
I'm planning to travel by train from Derby to Bedford, so would be stuck if the strike goes ahead.
 

---

Posted by Ricardus (# 8757) on :
 
Well, I'm not taking any chances - I've booked a ticket with National Express to get me to Bedford Bus Station for 1.30, and a railway ticket to get me back again (since it'll be after the strike).

Roxanna - National Express can get you to Bedford by 12.00.
 

---

Posted by Ricardus (# 8757) on :
 
Pah! Having done that, it turns out the strike was called off this morning.
 

---

Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 
Can you get a refund on your coach ticket?

At least we should be all set to go on Saturday!
 

---

Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
Roxanna - PM me with your train time, and I can collect you from the station. I'm meeting Spike at 10:35.

ETA - Ricardus ditto to confirm your later train.

Cheers,
Q.

[ 19. July 2006, 22:21: Message edited by: Qoheleth. ]
 

---

Posted by Simon (# 1) on :
 
The St Simeon bell-ringing is now the top story of the ship's homepage -- click here. Hope it all goes well. Don't forget to have a reading from our life of St Simeon sometime during the proceedings, as is traditional.
 

---

Posted by winklet (# 11261) on :
 
Hello. Sorry to butt in mid-discussion but I'm not sure who's in charge here to PM them.

I wanted to say I hope it goes well. I would have loved to have joined you, but unfortuantely I'm in Poland just now. Maybe some other time.

Good luck
 

---

Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
Hi, winklet. No one's in charge here

Thanks for your good wishes. Several other shipmate ringers couldn't make it this time; it could become a regular event ? We'll count you in for next time; what do you ring?

Q.
 

---

Posted by winklet (# 11261) on :
 
At the moment I ring Cambridge (minor usually but have rung major too), but hopefully I'll be broadening my horizons a bit in the next few months. And I'm based in Cambridge in term-time and near Newcastle in the holidays.
 

---

Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
We'll keep a rope for you next time!
 

---

Posted by Ricardus (# 8757) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Great Gumby:
Can you get a refund on your coach ticket?

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Great Gumby:
Tower duly booked. For those who want to look it up in Dove, it's St Mary's Carlton, Beds.

---

quote:

---

Sarcasmo.co.uk - first with the news you won’t hear anywhere else (with good reason)

---

Do you think they're taking the piss?
 

---

Posted by Ancient Mariner (# 4) on :
 
Just had a call from a local paper who are sending a snapper down for a few pics around 11am. Look after him! Gave him your mobile number, TGG.



 

---

Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
It looks as though I'm the first one back.

Both Quarter Peals were sucessful, which is pretty impressive bearing in mind that none of us had rung together before. Much ale was consumed too.

Thanks to Qoheleth for organising it and to Sarum Sleuth for conducting.
 

---

Posted by Chelley (# 11322) on :
 
Congratulations all of you on the success of both Quarter Peals!

 

---

Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
Grr... Shouldn't have made that cup of tea when I came in.

And thanks to TGG for arranging the towers.

Photos & report to follow soon.

(AM: The snapper was a "she" <sound of sexist knuckles being rapped>)

Q.
 

---

Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
The official reports, to be filed with TPTB. RL names changed to protect the innocent.
>>>>>

Carlton, Bedfordshire
St Mary the Virgin
Saturday, 22 July 2006 in 43m (9-2-7)
1259 Grandsire Doubles
1 Roxanna
2 Carys*
3 The Great Gumby
4 Spike
5 Sarum Sleuth (C)
6 Qoheleth.
* 1st inside
By 6 shipmates of www.shipoffools.com for the 5th birthday of the Ship and the Feast of St Simeon.
>>

Harrold, Bedfordshire
St Peter
Thursday, 22 June 2006 in 46m (13-0-6)
1260 Plain Bob Minor
1 Carys *
2 Roxanna
3 Spike
4 The Great Gumby
5 Ricardus
6 Sarum Sleuth (C)
* 1st minor
By 6 shipmates of www.shipoffools.com on the Feast of St Mary Magdalene.

Especial congratulations to Carys, in scoring two personal firsts in consecutive QPs on the same day.

Q.
 

---

Posted by Carys (# 78) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Qoheleth.:
Especial congratulations to Carys, in scoring two personal firsts in consecutive QPs on the same day.

---

And indeed doubling my number of successful QPs! My fingers are interestingly blistered but the taping up before the second one worked.

We were actually back earlier than Spike (around quarter past eight having done some shopping) but ate and things first. Odd priorities I know!

Carys
 

---

Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
Some photos here. Not a complete set; I think others have some, too.

Q.
 

---

Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
and a bit of a vid here.

Does anyone know how to turn it by 90' ???

Q.
 

---

Posted by Corpus cani (# 1663) on :
 
Well done all - great fun, especially the video (although I have a bit of a crick in my neck now...

I trust Simeon will smile his blessings down upon you all!

Cc
 

---

Posted by Amazing Grace (# 95) on :
 
Well done Shipmates!

(Was it really raining that hard? Lord have mercy!)

Charlotte
 

---

Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 
Yes, it really was raining that hard. There was some relatively nice weather in between, though. Some more photos here.
 

---

Posted by Magnum Mysterium (# 3418) on :
 
Congrats - TWO quarters in a day for a band who'd never rung together deserves respect!
 

---

Posted by magdalenegospel (# 11619) on :
 
Nice one!

I haven't rung in rather too long... (And it's difficult when your nearest tower is Westminster Abbey)
 

---

Posted by Ancient Mariner (# 4) on :
 
Well done everyone for making this an excellent St Simeon venture. Photos and video are great. Hopefully the local paper will run a story + pic this week as well.
 

---

Posted by Pearl B-4 Swine (# 11451) on :
 
Congratulations ! Wish I could have heard it .

Peals B-4 Swine
 

---

Posted by jedijudy (# 333) on :
 
Wow! Wonderful! What a massively-cool Shipmeet!
 

---

Posted by Banner Lady (# 10505) on :
 
I really enjoyed reading about this one - and kudos to all those who put in so much effort.
I hope the madly defiant act of unity from the Anglican shipmates around Canberra turns out to be just as much fun this weekend!
 

---

Posted by Autenrieth Road (# 10509) on :
 
Congratulations! Lovely pics & video, oh my! Could that rain you had be the drenching rain we had in New York on Friday, express-shipped across the Atlantic just for you ? That looks like so much fun (the bells, not the rain).
 

---

Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 
Next year, the Ship's Patronal Festival falls on the Saturday, 21st July 2007. All ringers should book the date now!

Q
 

---

Posted by Ancient Mariner (# 4) on :
 
The Ring o' Fools made it into Beattie's Diary in this week's Baptist Times (UK) - no online version, sorry.

shipoffools.com was dubbed 'wonderful' and a quote from TGG was lifted from the media release - 'bell-ringing really does raise foolishness to an art form'.

Concludes with: 'Baptists don't usually go in for saints but Beattie could be persuaded that an exception could be made for St Simeon, bless him.'
 

---

Posted by The Great Gumby (# 10989) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Qoheleth.:
Next year, the Ship's Patronal Festival falls on the Saturday, 21st July 2007. All ringers should book the date now!

---

After the success this year, what can we do to make next year's venture distinctive or unusual? I'm afraid there appear to be no belltowers in the entire country dedicated to St Simeon, which was something that crossed my mind. A quick method search also turned up no methods called Simeon, St Simeon (there is a St Simons), Ship, Fool, or any variation thereof*. Plenty of methods with stupid names, just not the ones we want! Even if they were beasts to ring, it might have been nice to attempt a touch of something appropriate.

* Although there are methods called Simon and Erin! I wonder how many other shipmates have methods named after them...
 

---

Posted by Adrian1 (# 3994) on :
 
I'm glad to hear both the quarters went okay and I liked the sound clip even if the opening rounds were a touch shaky!

As it happens I was staying at Walsingham for the weekend and, on Saturday morning a group of visiting ringers from Leicestershire called to ring at Walsingham church. Hearing the bells start up I dashed down to the church and introduced myself. In accodance with long standing ringers custom they invited me to join them for a few minutes and I rang tenor behind to a touch of St Simons. At 19cwt they're a heavy six but they handle beautifully.
 

---

Posted by Corpus cani (# 1663) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by The Great Gumby:
...there are methods called Simon and Erin! I wonder how many other shipmates have methods named after them...

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Corpus cani:
FAB! I haven't rung for donkey's years, but would be prepared to have another go solely to be able to ring Simon and/or Erin on St Simeon's Day!

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Spike:
You know, until I saw that post I had completely forgotten the method "Erin Triples" otherwise I may have suggested it as a method to go for. I rang it once about 15 years ago. It's a bit like Stedman AFAIR.

So, we now have a method for next year. Quarter of Erin. Start looking it up everyone!

---

I recall now being amused by the fact that Erin was a principle when I heard of it. Not sure I'll be up that for next year. I've not even learnt Stedman yet.

Carys
 

---

Posted by Adrian1 (# 3994) on :
 
As one or two people here know, I ring regularly at the parish church in my local market town. Well we had a little bit of hilarity in the belfry this morning - at my expense too! Recently my mother very kindly let my Sunday best trousers out a little bit to accomodate an ever expanding waistline. Putting them on this morning I thought they still felt fairly snug and that wearing a pair of braces would be unnecessary. Little did I realise that the theory was going to be put to the test.

I arrived at church as usual and climbed the 92 steps to the ringing chamber. My fellow ringers arrived and the bells were raised without incident. However we had just begun to ring call changes on eight, and I was in my usual tenor position, when I felt my trousers starting to gravitate slowly southwards. Realising there was nothing I could do about it, I was forced to let them continue their journey and a couple of seconds later they were round my ankles! I'd heard of other ringers having similar experiences during peals and carrying on as if nothing had happened so that's exactly what I did and the conductor continued to call the changes.

About 10 minutes later I was reunited with my trousers amidst much laughter! On reflection I'd rather the ladies present hadn't discovered that I had hairy legs or wore a certain brand of (reasonably clean) underpants so I've taken steps to ensure it doesn't happen again.
Have any other ringers here had similar experiences?



[ 10. September 2006, 18:06: Message edited by: Adrian1 ]
 

---

Posted by Carys (# 78) on :
 
My skirt was slipping on Thursday evening at ringing, but I wasn't too worried as I wear shorts underneath for cycling purposes. The shorts also help stop the skirt escaping.

Carys
 

---

Posted by Qoheleth. (# 9265) on :
 

quote:

---

Originally posted by Spike:
Quarter of Erin.

---

.. and if it fires out, it will be pickled 'erring
<groan >.

I posted the comic reference on the meejah thread in The Styx. We also got the same piece onto Campanophile, although the report has been now been pushed off the end. All good publicity for Our Ship.

It must have been the day for trouser accidents: our QP attempt before evensong tonight fired out after 20 minutes. The tenor ringer was very relieved, as he knew his trousers were slowly descending, due to belt error...

Q.
 

---

Posted by Adrian1 (# 3994) on :
 
Trouser and skirt mishaps certainly seem to be in vogue at the minute. I'm sorry to hear about the lost quarter - I know from people who ring them just how frustrating that can be. I hope another attempt's more successful.


 

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