A BATTLE to keep a village's church bells ringing has been launched by a dwindling band of bellringers.

The trio of regular bellringers, at Winksley Parish Church, near Ripon, have called for help from the Fountains group of parishes.

Acting bell captain Stuart Wakefield, who launched the Don't Let Winksley's Bells Fall Silent campaign, said: "Until 18 months ago, we managed to get by, but one of our regular ringers died and another is unable to attend any more, which is why we launched our plea for more help."

Trainee ringers will be given tuition by experienced campanologists at Masham Parish Church.

Anyone interested in joining the group can call (01765) 605697 for further information