Cathedrals to peal together

The city’s Anglican and Roman Catholic cathedrals will be amongst hundred of churches, institutions and ordinary people participating in the event, which is also a part of the London 2012 festival.

It is the brainchild of Turner Prize-winning artist and musician Martin Creed who is inviting everyone in the UK to take part in Work No. 1197: All the bells in a country rung as quickly and as loudly as possible for three minutes at 08:12 on 27th July 2012 to celebrate the first day of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Ruth Mackenzie, Director, Cultural Olympiad and London 2012 Festival, said: “The commission shows the Festival’s commitment to world-class artists and to the values of participation. Martin Creed’s wonderful idea gets everyone involved in the opening day of the Games not just as an audience but as an integral part of the work.”

Amongst the highlights listed by the organisers are: “St Columb’s Cathedral, the mother church of the Anglican Church of Ireland, and its Catholic counterpart, St Eugene’s Cathedral, in Derry will be ringing in unison.”

Everyone who signs up will be able to download an exclusive Martin Creed ringtone, Work No. 1372, which features 28 different bell sounds. The Official London 2012 Join In App also incorporates a line of Martin’s composition as a shake and play feature.

All The Bells will be broadcast by the BBC to a potential live audience of over 10 million people across the UK on TV, radio and online - including BBC Breakfast, BBC Radio 2 Chris Evans Breakfast Show and BBC local radio stations.

Anyone can take part by ringing any kind of bell for three minutes - from experienced change ringing experts of tower bells to enthusiastic children with hand bells, bicycle bells and doorbells.

To get involved all individuals, communities and organisations are encouraged to register at www.allthebells.com and register their interest in taking part on the day or register the own bell ringing event for others to join