Ding dong! Purton handbell ringers raise over £9,000

A group of handbell ringers based in Purton have raised over £9,000 for Prospect Hospice through collections at their performances.

The Purton Peartree Pealers have been supporting the charity since 2001, raising £9,035.34 in donations from their annual handbell ringing, particularly in the weeks leading up to Christmas when they ring in stores, garden centres and at the late night shopping evening in Royal Wootton Bassett.

Founded in the 1990’s, the Peartree Pealers currently have a dozen ringers in the group who meet up for practices twice a month in the village church, St. Mary’s, or in the home of one of their members. During the year, they perform at a variety of different events and venues in their local area.

From left to right: Mary Wingrove, Libbie Sheppard, Maureen Quincey, Rosie Harris

“We’ve performed at concerts at village halls, Lydiard Park, performances for residents in local care homes, the W.I., the church, a local school and even a wedding,” said member Mary Wingrove. “This September, we hope to join the Thamesdown Ladies for their next concert. Some members of the group have had friends or family who benefited from the care Prospect Hospice provides, and they are delighted to have raised over £9,000 for the charity through their handbell ringing.”

New members are also welcome to the existing group, and arranging a meeting at one of their practice sessions couldn’t be easier. “If you can read music and would like to join our friendly team, please do get in touch,” said Mary, “we look forward to hearing from you!” For more information about the group, you can find them on Facebook or at www.peartreepealers.com, or by emailing mary@peartreepealers.com.

Vikki Rath, Community Fundraiser for Prospect Hospice, said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone from Purton Peartree Pealers for their generous donation. We are extremely grateful to them for their ongoing support of the hospice and the end-of-life care it provides.”