I’ve come across the Abingdon Bell Ringers three times already this festive season. The first occasion was at the St Michael’s Christmas Fair, where the bells provided background music.

Next, I saw them at Abingdon Phab, where they not only performed but also led Phab members in singing a selection of traditional carols and allowed members to have a go. The bell ringers also set a Christmas quiz for Phab members.

Most recently, they played at Trinity Church’s Winter Warmer, as church members gathered for a shared meal and raised over £200 for Christmas charities.

The group needs at least six ringers to give a full performance, and they seem to have a pool of players to call on. A few familiar faces appeared at all three events, while others joined for one or two, keeping each performance slightly different. Handbell ringing has a long association with Christmas. It is a visual performance too as audiences can watch the movement of the bells.