AN A-PEAL for Buriton bellringers has sounded out as a significant anniversary is celebrated.

This year is the 300th since a set of five bells was installed at the Church of St Mary following a fire caused by a lightning strike.

To mark the occasion the bellringers will be providing a full peal on Saturday for two hours and 45 minutes, starting at 9.30am.

Not one of the ringers lives in the village near Petersfield though, and there are only eight in the team now, which organisers say is barely enough to guarantee the ringing of the six bells – an extra one was added in 1935 – every Sunday.

Any able bodied person from about the age of ten upwards can be taught to handle a bell. Once mastered, it can provide a hobby and exercise.

Anyone interested should go along to a Wednesday practice to see what’s involved, from 7.30-9pm.

Contact the tower captain David Hughes on 023 9257 0620 for more information about getting involved.