Barbara (nee Colver) learnt to ring in 1945 at a time when bells were sounding again after the silence of the war years. When she became friends with Alan Hough they both went to practice bellringing at various churches within the locality. Transport of course in those days would have been by bicycle but never the less they persevered with their hobby. Her interest and enthusiasm was such that she rang her first peal at Barwell in 1952 at the age of 22. this was to be the start of a long and fruitful period of ringing, especially at her local church of St Mary’s in Barwell. She also took part in many other peals in the district. In the post war years Barwell enjoyed a very healthy and loyal band of ringers and she and Alan were instrumental in encouraging many people to learn to ring. Sunday was always reserved for church and ringing and in Barbara’s case singing in the choir as well. We used to ring for morning and evensong services so it was a pretty full day at the church. She was always keen to ring and her favourites were Grandsire, Plain Bob and Stedman on both six and eight bells and the band at that time were very capable in those methods.

She enjoyed her ringing for over 70 years but following the death of her beloved husband Alan in 2018 her health started to deteriorate and she decided her ringing days were at an end. She continued to keep a keen interest in the bells and the ringers, and I particularly, am extremely grateful for the patience shown to me during my early learning days. She and Alan were always keen to help others and never tired of giving a helping hand to new ringers.

We were very fortunate at Barwell to have had a husband and wife team who have shown true dedication over many years and I and others are truly thankful for them introducing us to the art of ringing and for their unwavering support.

May she rest in peace following a long and faithful life in the community. She will be missed by all those who knew her.

Michael Pickering