Bell Ringing at Pontypridd, Rhondda Cynon Taff

Some call changes (outside and inside) followed by some Cambridge Minor and a lower on the back six on this fine Taylor eight. This was filmed on Sunday, 13th August 2023 – the final day of The Lilliputters Guild Summer Tour. (We later made a return visit to Newport Cathedral; however, I did not film anything here). This video features a guest appearance from Squishy the Octopus – the undisputed star of the Sunday!

St Catherine’s church, with its fine tower and spire, was built in 1868, but was not equipped with a peal of bells until 1913, when the current eight were cast and installed by Taylors. They hang in a typical H frame with contemporary fittings, including Hastings stays on all except bells 3 and 4 (which have been converted to standard fittings). The bells’ inscriptions are entirely in Welsh

When we visited last year, the tower was in a very sorry state; they felt like they had not been rung regularly in some time, and dampness was prominent. Notably, the ropes were tatty and mouldy (one snapped in the raise, and another gave out on a visiting peal band soon after). Happily, things seem to be much improved now; a band is being taught, and new top and tail ends have been fitted to the ropes. The difference is marked; the ringing room is now a much more pleasant environment, and the bells handle much more nicely than previous. The front three remain somewhat flighty, but are easier than they were; the treble has also got a bit of red spliced into the sally – a nice touch!

Tenor 12-2-21 in F#

https://dove.cccbr.org.uk/tower/14992