THE bells of St Thomas’s Church pealing out across Salisbury are so familiar that many city residents take them for granted.

But a shortage of ringers could eventually silence them.

The church has about 15 regular ringers but some are elderly and may wish to retire at some point, and tower captain Margaret Romano is keen to encourage newcomers.

“We do have one 11-year-old,” she said, “and one lady learning who is her 70s. But it’s very much the case that people aren’t getting into bellringing any more.”

One exception to that rule is Chris Drake, a fine art removals specialist, who joined the St Thomas’s team seven months ago after moving to the city. He said: “It’s a great way to meet people from all walks of life. It’s a real community.”

His colleagues include a furniture remover, an eye surgeon, and a former power station manager.

“I took it up because the vicar said they were short of people,” said Chris, “and it’s turned out to be the most fantastic thing.

“There are people who aren’t even churchgoers. It’s sociable – we go to a lot of different churches, and any other ringer can come to our church. We get quite a lot calling in just to ring the bells.

“We have a weekly practice on Thursdays for an hour-and-a-half, and an extra half-hour for new ringers. Then we ring twice on Sundays. Plus there are funerals, weddings and special occasions such as royal visits.

“There are competitions, too. There was one at Martin a few weeks ago, and St Thomas’s won.”

Although the largest bell at St Thomas’s is heavy, Chris is anxious to reassure people that they don’t have to be musclebound to take part.

“It’s all about precision – a question of technique more than strength,” he explained. “And it’s good for your back as well, with all that stretching.

“It takes a long time to teach someone. But the people at St Thomas’s are very welcoming and very patient.

“Bellringing’s got history, skill, personalities, comradeship, and it’s international. I would recommend it to anybody.”

Anyone unable to make it to Thursday rehearsals might be interested in joining the St Martin’s Church team, which practises on Tuesdays and is also short of members.

In either case, in the first instance they can ring Mrs Romano on 01722 503178 or email the deputy tower captain at nigel.orchard@btinternet.com.