community matters - the choir

'Choir singing improves health, happiness - and is the perfect ice-breaker.'

Jacques Launay, Postdoctoral Researcher in Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford

There's a very interesting article by Jacques Launay on the benefits of singing in a choir which is well worth a read.  Even better, why not join a community choir like the one I'm visiting this evening? It may be a cold, dark and rainy winter night but that doesn't stop twenty or so choir members from turning up to practice in the hall of a village primary school.

They extend such a warm welcome and for ninety minutes I listen enraptured.  There may be the odd wrong note, on occasion voices waver off track. However, the sense of community, togetherness and harmony fills the room with a special magic.  It's a privilege to be there!

community matters - the dog-walker

Dogs are at the very heart of many communities.  They need regular walks and this provides so many opportunities for interaction and conversation.

Here's a professional dog-walker we meet regularly when we're out. She's with Meg, one of her many charges.

everyday beauty

cold beauty

community matters - the bell-ringers

The bell-tower of our church is accessed by a metal spiral staircase.  As I climb up I listen to the ringers practice in the loft above. Such a beautiful sound.

There are eight bells in all. The oldest dates back to 1565 and the most recent to 2002.

During the week a single bell rings every hour to mark the passing of time and then on Thursdays, Sundays and special occasions the bell-ringers gather to weave their magical peals. They provide the beating heart of our little community.