Hopes are high that two enthusiastic young bell ringers will be the key to introducing more youngsters to the tradition.

Harry Finlinson and Tom Leech only started lessons a couple of months ago, and already they are excelling themselves.

Chris de Cordova, of St John’s Church bellringers in Cleator Moor, says the 11-year-olds are learning the ropes quickly and she now wants other youngsters to follow in their footsteps.

Because the church bells are so heavy at the Cleator Moor church, the St Patrick’s school pupils have to learn at St James’ in Whitehaven.

Chris said: “We haven’t had any as young as Harry and Tom for a few years and we would love to teach more. There are about 10 11-to 16-year-olds ringing in the various churches in Copeland at the moment and they have opportunities to get together for fun and ringing.”

She added: “But it is not only an activity for children to learn. Many adults take it up and get a great deal of pleasure from learning the ropes and ringing the changes.”

Harry is the son of Cleator Moor bellringer Martin Finlinson and both he and Tom are interested in football, sports and attend Scouts.

Harry started ringing in late November and had two or three lessons a week until he could manage a bell. Tom came to have a look one night and decided to learn too.

“They both seem to be keen and enjoy it and are fast learners, as youngsters often are. It is fun, with lots of stages of learning, for pride in achievement, with certificates and badges.”

There is no charge to take part in bellringing and although it is usually in a church, there is no expectation that ringers will attend services.

Anyone interested in trying can attend St James’ Church on Fridays between 7pm and 9pm.