St Hilda’s recently welcomed guests from the Ancient Society of College Youths, one of the world’s oldest bell ringing organisations. The group was established in London in 1637 and rings bells for important events at notable churches such as St Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey.
The Ancient Society of College Youths stopped by St Hilda’s on their recent Australian Tour. The group was delighted to meet fellow enthusiasts and enjoyed the opportunity to perform with St Hilda’s bell ringers. They were very complimentary of the facilities and talent here in Perth. Special thanks to Fr. Philip, Mary Townsend (Day, 1963) and Susan Gillett (Wisbey, 1966), who helped to host our guests and literally ‘show them the ropes’.
St Hilda’s bell ringers volunteer their time in the Whitby Chapel every Wednesday morning during term, and the School is incredibly fortunate to have Mary and Susan’s support together with students and local community members. The beautiful peals that start our Wednesday mornings add a unique charm to the Senior School campus.
For anyone interested in learning more about bellringing at St Hilda’s, please contact Helen Thompson at helen.thompson@sthildas.wa.edu.au. We welcome Old Scholars and students to participate and learn this ancient art.