CAMPANOLOGIST Kirsty Watts aims to keep the bells of her local church ringing by taking part in next month's Great North Run.

Kirsty is raising money through sponsorship to provide the parish church of All Saints, Kirkbymoorside, with six much-needed new bell ropes.

Her Running for Rope appeal has already been given a £130 boost from Kirkbymoorside Town Council, and with a further £200 which she and friends raised through a cake stall in the Market Place.

"The bells urgently need new ropes, but the church council could not afford to fund them so I decided to set about raising the money," said Kirsty, who last year ran to aid Ryedale Folk Museum.

As well as pealing the bells for services and weddings, the eight-strong team also trains youngsters for Scout and Guide badges.

"We also train anyone who is interested in joining the team because we have eight ringers and six bells, and often someone can be away on holiday or absent through illness or business," said Kirsty.

The present bell ropes have worn out after about 20 years of ringing since being fitted.

"I intend taking part in the Great North Run with a bellrope hanging around my neck and I hope to raise sufficient money to enable all the ropes to be replaced, but it will cost about £1,000," said Kirsty.

If anyone is able to help Kirsty she can be contacted on (01751) 431199