The Parish Pealers are an accomplished group of handbell ringers that ring for pleasure and to entertain both congregations and audiences.
In 1889, ten handbells in the key of E, were purchased by Waldron ringers (All Saints) to practise when necessary and to teach beginners, thus saving the church bells. In 1999, after several years of neglect, these bells were discovered in the Bell Tower at All Saints. Unfortunately they were in very poor condition and were subsequently refurbished at a cost of £1400 with money borrowed from the PCC. After various fund raising lunches and some generous donations, the loan was eventually repaid in 2003. The first concert with the refurbished bells was at the Flower Festival at Waldron in 2002. In 2003, two new bells were purchased to enable an increase in repertoire.
Recent performances have been at the Monastery of the Visitation, Women's Fellowship Groups in Etchingham and Heathfield, the service of Nine Lessons and Carols at St. Barts, and Nursing Homes in Cross in Hand, Heathfield and Horam.
Practice Sessions: Fridays, 9 - 10.00am
New Members are welcomed. Although the ability to read music is an advantage, a sense of rhythm is the most important qualification. New members must also have reasonable availability during the day and be prepared for extra practice sessions before performances.
Contact: Maureen Keith→ if you would like to join the Parish Pealers or if you would like to book a performance.
