For hundreds of years church bells have rung out, not only to call communities to worship, but also to celebrate special occasions, in remembrance of others and to signify special events. They are part of the soundscape of the UK. In June 2022 we all celebrated Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee with the sound of bells. Bells also rang out with a muffled sound throughout the nation as a mark of respect at her passing in September 2022, and bellringers were called on once again to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III on 6th May. 

On the special day there was ringing in 170 towers across the Diocese, with over 900 people participating. Many firsts were scored – first open ringing, first 1/8th peal, first quarters, first peals by ringers and on the bells, all of which are listed below.  David Loake, Doug Holloway, Paul Hutton & Arthur Dicks were ringing for their second Coronation, having been in a band for the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

A fantastic and fitting tribute to our new King, we thank all those involved. 

Coronation firsts

First Quarter

• Josh White (Earls Barton)
• Garth Ratcliffe (Bozeat)
• Andrew Green (Bozeat)
• Paul Szyszka (Ryhall)
• Howard Murphy (Cold Ashby)

First Quarter away from Cover

• Rachael Szyszka (Ryhall)

First Quarter Inside

• Helena-Katie H Scholes (Ryhall)
• Ethan Szyszka (Ryhall)

First Quarter of Minor

• Lynda Jaycocks (Lubenham)

First Quarter of Triples

• Sue Webster (Uppingham)
• Ian Bell (Uppingham)

First Quarter of Major

• Jane Robinson (Cathedral)

First Quarter of Surprise

• Janet Donaldson (Saddington)

First Quarter as Conductor

• Thomas Saunders (Uppingham)

First Peal

• Hilary Hardie (Nassington)
• Deborah Bray (Castor)

First Peal on the bells

• Great Oakley
• Nassington