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There are nearly 40,000 bell ringers in the UK but the numbers may be declining according to �鶹�� local radio research. It is suggested that a fall in church attendance and a difficulty in recruiting new bell ringers are the reasons why. However, 14 year-old Rachel Mahoney believes there are plenty of young people taking up the tradition: “We’ve got such a massive community our young ringers” she told 5 live Sunday Breakfast. Rachel has been bell ringing since the age of 11 and says it is a great way to make friends: “You’re accepted by everyone, at all ages. I’ve got friends who are 10, I’ve got friends who are 24 and I have friends who are older people which is great.” Her 76 year old granddad Peter Hurcombe has been a bell ringer his entire life and also shares Rachel’s view of the tradition: “You can go into any tower, if you’re on holiday or at university, and you’re immediately amongst friends.” This clip is originally from 5 live’s Sunday Breakfast on 4 September 2016.