For the 1000th Quarter Peal on the bells in the Addleshaw Tower at Chester Cathedral 27th January 2020.

On a day for remembering
Such atrocities long ago
All the bells are united in song.
In the damp still air they suddenly reverse, like larks -
The notes soar away upwards
Until unable to keep going
The noise comes crashing down
In waves of sweet harmony
Falling like blessings from the windows of heaven
Flooding our ears. Then away again
Up over the city and so
It goes on, and standing there
In the place of sad reflection
We hear Hope
Unfurling its message around us.

Who are these like stars appearing

Who are these like stars appearing,

Shoulders bent and footsteps slow?

These are they who were at Cambridge

All of twenty years ago.

Who are these in worldy raiment

Sitting at this sumptuous feast?

These have all forsaken error -

Now they worship facing east.

Who are these in stocks and collars

Are they not in 'system' found?

Quite forsaking Mr Darby,

Is their teaching really sound?

Did you know that one's a Baptist -

Was he dipped again d'you think?

Must he wear a hat on Sundays,

Does he smoke cigars or drink?

Rumour has it one's a 'pisky'

'Tis a shortish step from Rome.

Not surprising - All Saints' Peg Street

Always seemed his proper home.

Two of them have been churchwardens.

Most of them have been confirmed.

Some allow their spouses lipstick,

Hair cut short and even permed!

What a falling-off we see here!

Worldly mien, ungodly chat,

Some are even looking happy,

What would Brethren say to that?

Michael Gillingham c.1970