branch outing

witney and woodstock branch outing    saturday 9 may 2009    wiltshire

There were about 25 of us in total so not quite enough to warrant a coach so we set out in cars. We had a lovely day driving around the pretty Wiltshire towns and villages set in beautiful countryside. The first tower we arrived at was, St Michael and All Angels, Melksham. 8 18-0-7, which had a stunning stain glass window filling one wall of the ringing chamber, we moved on from there to Holy Trinity at Bradford upon Avon, 8 29-2-26. where we also had lunch and time to have a quick wander around the town before heading to Christ Church 8 12-0-7, in the same town. From there we set out for St Mary the Virgin Steeple Ashton 6 20-3-18 It was the prettiest village with the most stunning enormous church.

Our day coming towards the end now, we headed for our last tower at Marlborough St Mary the Virgin 8 16-2-23 en-route we drove past Silbury Hill and stopped to climb it, but unfortunately it is now closed to the public due to erosion. Onwards to Marlborough where we had a bit of time before we had access to the tower so we decided it was time for tea and a slice of elusive Carrot Cake.

I had such an enjoyable day ringing some lovely bells, in lovely towers all with easy stairs, no less. I think I speak for us all on the outing when I say thank you so much to Richard for organising such a great day, it all ran very smoothly (apart from the key for Christ Church, but we won't mention that) and nicely spaced so we didn't feel pressured.