The sound of bells is intrinsically part of the cultural heritage of the UK and the Central Council of Church Bell Ringers is keen to have this officially recognised. To support this application they are asking us, the ringing community, to sign their online petition.
Cultural heritage is more than monuments and museum collections. It also includes traditions or living expressions inherited from our ancestors and passed on to our descendants.
Living heritage broadly covers traditions and social practices, including folklore, performance, customs and crafts. In this context, bell ringing fits the UNESCO category definition of a performing art and/or social practice, as well as a sport in the case of striking competitions. UNESCO recognition of our Art would result in enhanced awareness, respect and and credibility among the wider public. In the long term it would ensure safeguarding of the living heritage in the UK to ensure it can continue and be passed on. In the short term being able to add a UNESCO logo to our recruiting literature, would add some prestige to our image.
To qualify as UNESCO Living Heritage it needs to be recognised as such by the communities, groups or individuals who create, maintain and transmit it themselves.
Individual ringers are asked to support this important initiative by adding their name to the online petition
Andy Waring
