Front Cover: The churches, towers and bells of Francis Johnston by Simon Walker – Part 1
Francis Johnston – architect and bell ringer – was born in Kilmore, County Armagh, in 1760. His family had roots in the county going back to the Plantation of Ulster when William Johnston settled there from Scotland. It seems that Johnston’s father, also called William, was a builder. The proximity of Kilmore to the city of Armagh was to lead Francis Johnston to opportunities which allowed his vast talents to flourish, so much so that he ranks as one of Ireland’s greatest architects, being labelled as "Ireland’s Wren". Additionally, he was an extremely enthusiastic ringer and he ensured that many of his buildings – sacred and secular – were provided with bells.

Letters
Malvern gap - Stephen J. Bedford
Quarter peals, openness and mini rings - Alan J. Collings
Tower correspondence - Janet Smith
The Bells of Hanoi Cathedral - Alan Blair
‘Ring the Changes’ poster - Colin Conway
Ringers’ prayers - Alan Kennedy
A more secular emphasis - Sarah Chatters
George Bailey - John Eisel
I rang with an old Bailey - David Sansum
Open that door! - Geoffrey Aldridge

From the E-Lists A round-up from the internet compiled by John Camp
Ian McCallion complained that press photos made ringers look ‘profoundly unattractive and weird and old’.

Obituaries
Patrick Andrew Harrisson, John Brookes Thornton

The reunion of ‘Four-In-Hand’ Grosmont Hand-bell Ringers, February 1st 2009 by Sheila E. M. Parry
A reunion of members of the ‘Four-in-Hand’ Grosmont Hand-bell Ringers took place recently. The occasion was the 30th anniversary of the making of the recording of their hand-bell ringing.

Hanley bells – progress
The Diocese of Lichfield issued a press release about Hanley bells on 19th May: Bells to ring out after decades of silence

Thought for the week
Almost everywhere I visit to ring, I am asked the standard "Where is your tower?"

Ann and Guy’s wedding
Ann Platt and Guy Darvill were married on Saturday, 18th April in St Thomas of Canterbury Church, Brentwood, Essex.