IN a rare event bell ringers in Petersfield and Alton welcomed in 2023 simultaneously by ringing the same peals.

At 5pm on January 1, New Year's Day, members of the Alton and Petersfield bell ringers rang the same peals at St Peter’s church in Petersfield and at St Lawrence church in Alton.

Jess Hornsby of The Winchester and Portsmouth Diocesan Guild of Bell Ringers said: “I am not sure if this has been done before, it was unusual as both bands rang the same method, at the same time at both churches.

“The ringing would have been heard across both towns to welcome the new year in.

“It was an idea that started at the Holybourne monthly practice and after a little bit of rehearsal and some homework, I am pleased to say that bells at both churches rang out at 5pm using the same method.

“It had been touch and go with sickness and Covid taking out two of our ringers.

“But luckily we managed to find substitutes and two slightly nervous bands met at the towers.

“Some good striking took place and it was a first in this method for most of the ringers and first as conductors.

“I would like to take the chance to thank all the ringers who took part.

“Studying the method and attending practices we were able to achieve this.

“Special thanks to Mike Rose and Andy Ingram for conducting, with special thanks to Andy as he was a late substitute and only had 48 hours to learn the composition and make sure he knew the method.

“This is a great start for Alton and Petersfield Districts 2023 ringing. Amazing team work, lovely ringing and a fantastic sense of achievement.

“Well done to everyone and I look forward to all we manage to achieve in 2023. I look forward to seeing a lot of you over the coming month at district events and tower practices.”

For more information about bell ringing in a church local to you visit the website at https://www.wpbells.org/