At the end of October half term 2015, Kitty and Freddie had their first handling lesson at Wargrave. We have used ‘Learning the Ropes’ throughout, and although both have a natural aptitude, this has undoubtedly helped their progress.
Most of their ringing has been at the weekly Wargrave practice and Sunday mornings. A couple of dedicated branch training practices, and two level 4/5 practices arranged by the newly formed Loddon Ringing Hub have facilitated the mastery of Plain Hunt, Plain Bob, Treble Bob Hunt and Little Bob.

Level 3 was reached in August, well before the target date set for their D of E. 20 minutes of call changes on the 10 at St Dunstan’s Stepney on Sunday 21 st with sister Becky, was followed by their first quarter on Tuesday 23 rd at Wargrave. This must have been one of the hottest, most humid days of the year, and both rang very well. Their second quarter was on the following Saturday at nearby Loddon Hub tower Twyford, and the standard even better with some particularly good ringing in the fourth extent.

Both are now working on Level 4 and 5, although as it is GCSEs and A levels this academic year, this has to fit in around the school work!

Plain Bob Doubles is now rung regularly at Wargrave on Sundays, and this morning we rang a striking competition standard extent with Kitty and Freddie inside.

Sunday 30th October 2016

120 Plain Bob Doubles

1. Roy Russell

2. Freddie Gingell

3. Kitty Gingell

4. Vinni Sullivan

5. Dave Sullivan

6. John Coombes

I also derived great pleasure after some good rounds on 6, when Dave pointed out that I had taught the entire band to ring! I was busy taking pictures!

Rounds on 6: 1. Ruth Howse, 2. Val Salisbury, 3. Carlos Soares, 4. Freddie Gingell, 5. Kitty Gingell, 6. Bill Bookless