Guernsey bellringers receive Coronation medals

Tuesday, 11 February 2025 16:20

Guernsey bellringers who hailed the new reign of King Charles III have been presented with Coronation medals in a ceremony at Government House.

‘Ring for the King’ took place on the morning of King Charles's coronation day (6 May 2023).

It saw church bells ring for 45 minutes across the British Isles before the start of the service in Westminster Abbey.

46 people in Guernsey took part, across four parish churches - Town, St Peter’s, the Vale and Forest.

They were led by local maths teacher and Tower Vice-Captain of the Town Church, Mr Duncan Loweth.

The UK has issued more than 400,000 coronation medals to 'thank' individuals who contributed to the celebrations.

Guernsey's bellringers received theirs on Friday (7 February).

The Lieutenant-Governor Richard Cripwell shook their hands.

"There is a long and rich tradition of bellringing to mark special royal occasions, so I was particularly pleased when the Bailiwick joined with churches around Britain in signalling the start of the new reign.

On behalf of the community, I’d like to thank everyone involved for their time and for their enthusiasm for an activity that forms part of the collective memory of a momentous day."

Around half of the participants were newcomers to bellringing, responding to a call for volunteers, and learnt the skill in two months.

His Excellency admired their ability to learn so fast.

"I was delighted to learn that some of the medal recipients were first-time bell ringers, who had seized the opportunity to join in and learn a new skill, albeit a very old one.

Having unsuccessfully tried to learn myself, I know just how difficult it is."

14 bellringers who took part at St Anne’s Church in Alderney will receive their Coronation medals in the Spring.