The bell ringers of St Gluvias Church in Penryn are on the lookout for fresh blood as they struggle to keep the ancient art alive in the town.

The team is searching for experienced campanologists to help the church tower ring out every Sunday and on special occasions throughout the year, having recently lost two of its members.

Tower captain David Parry said the team of eight was currently "struggling" to ring all the bells in good time, and ideally they would have a team of 10 or 12 all pulling together.

He said: "We're trying to keep it going, if it doesn't then these things just die.

"I would like to think that there are people in the area that have done it in the past and would like to join again."

David is looking for people with experience, as he does not have the ability to train people up, although there are other groups in the area that can do that, such as Gwennap Pit.

He added: "It's a social gathering, we do have an outing, and visit other towers throughout the county."

"We are trying to keep a tradition alive and fit. It's an old tradition, a tradition worth trying to save if we can, and pass it on as well."

The group practice on Wednesday evenings, and ring the bells for Sunday services, occasions such as funerals, and on special events such as the commemoration of VE day.

For more information contact David Parry on 01326372935.