Bell Ringers - A dozen would-be bell ringers gathered in the Grosmont Church vestry to learn about the basics of bell ringing. Martin Jackson, tower captain at Grosmont, has kindly agreed to help the Skenfrith people to acquire the necessary skills. He said that it could take some time before everyone could handle a bell properly and only then would the clappers be untied so that the bells could be actually heard. Before that happens the PCC will have to decide what it can afford to spend to renovate the bells and bell-frame in Skenfrith Church. At the first meeting, Martin Jackson told the group about the bells, how they were hung and how they worked. He took everyone up, first into the ringing chamber where he demonstrated how to hold the rope and the 'sally' and then three by three because of limited space. All the group went to see the bells. This was well worthwhile as they all now know what the bells look like and also the mechanism. It was a fascinating evening with an instructor who was full of enthusiasm. Everyone is now looking forward to learning how to handle a bell safely and well. It is necessary to have a team of ringers either ready to ring or in training before the faculty giving permission to go ahead with the work of renovation can be granted. Martin Jackson will start to train the recruits in April.

Display Boards - Skenfrith Church, as well as needing money for the renovation of the bells, needs to raise money for a number of other jobs. Work is required on the organ and on the wall paintings where plaster is crumbling. Chris Field has undertaken to look for grants. She has asked if anyone knows of any sizeable, freestanding display boards, which could be used in the church to mount exhibitions to help with fundraising. If anyone knows of such items being disgarded by businesses for any reason, she would be delighted to hear of them. Contact Chris Field on 01600 750438.