The Joyful Sound of Sale’s Handbell Ringers
For over 30 years, the Sale Handbell Ringers have brought joy to local audiences through the beautiful and precise art of handbell music. Discover more about the group's weekl
Handbells have a long and fascinating history
A Sound That Echoes Through Time
Handbells have a long and fascinating history. Their roots may stretch back as far as the Bronze Age, when early bells were used for both music and protection. Across many cultures, bells have acted as spiritual guardians — believed to ward off evil spirits and bring harmony to communities. From farm animals to temple rituals, bells rang out with purpose. By the 11th century, handbells even appeared in the famous Bayeux Tapestry, used in King Edward the Confessor’s funeral procession to protect the dead on their journey.
From Village Foundries to Musical Fame
The handbells we know today began to take shape in 17th-century England, when they were used to rehearse tower bell patterns (change ringing) without disturbing entire towns. The Aldbourne foundry in Wiltshire, run by the Cor brothers, was among the first to produce tuned handbells, paving the way for musical ensembles. While manufacturing started in the South, the tradition took strong root in the North — especially during the Industrial Revolution — leading to performances, competitions, and a new appreciation of handbell music as an art form.
A Tradition Still Ringing Today
By the mid-19th century, handbell ringing was flourishing, with large competitions like the one at Belle Vue Gardens in Manchester drawing skilled performers. What began as a tool for quiet practice had become a musical tradition in its own right. Today, handbell choirs are found in churches, schools, and community groups around the world, celebrated for their precision, teamwork, and joyful sound. Curious to hear this tradition in action? Find out more about your local group, Sale Handbell Ringers, and discover how this timeless craft lives on in our own community.
Sale Handbell Ringers
For more than three decades, the Sale Handbell Ringers have been bringing music and joy to the community.
Handbell ringing is the art of playing tuned bells by hand, creating melodies and harmonies through coordinated movements. It is commonly performed in ensembles, where each ringer is responsible for specific notes.
The Sale Handbell Ringers bring together people from a variety of backgrounds and musical experiences. Kate Worthington has played with the group for 15 years and been musical director since 2019. As a former piano teacher, playing and occasionally conducting for the Northern Bell Orchestra, she brings a wealth of musical experience.
Meeting every Wednesday at 7 p.m. at The Avenue Methodist Church, this dedicated group has built a tradition of teamwork, friendship, and shared enthusiasm for handbell ringing. The Sale Handbell Ringers play for many groups around the Trafford area including Christmas concerts and handbell-ringing rallies across the Northwest. They are available to play at Care Homes, church groups or for local charities and get togethers.
New members are always welcome! Whether you’re an experienced musician or a complete beginner, why not give handbell ringing a try?
Find More in the Live Well, Your Way Magazine
If you’ve enjoyed this blog, you’ll love our Live Well, Your Way magazine — packed with inspiring stories, community highlights, and local opportunities to stay active, connected, and well. This year, we’re distributing 20,000 free copies across our neighbourhoods. You can pick one up at local supermarkets, pharmacies, hospitals, GP surgeries, churches, and community groups. It’s our way of making sure everyone has access to activities, support, and a friendly sense of connection — right on their doorstep.
