A ringing of brass bells sounds out a chorus from the song “We Wish You A Merry Christmas”. There are six people swinging the milk-bottle sized instruments, and believe it or not, all of them have never lifted a bell around half an hour ago. These people are only a few of the hundreds reliving some of England’s forgotten arts at an event called the Lancanshire’s first ever Traditions Craft Fair. This took place recently at the Lockstock Hall High School.

Lancanshire was once constantly graced with festivities, according to Simon Rennie, chairman of Maghull Parish Ringers from Liverpool. Then some smart guy had the idea that if you have smaller bells than the ones in the Church Tower, then you can ring them anywhere you like. And there is no better place to ring them than in a pub house.

Plus, other people are also sharing their treasured crafts with everyone, in addition to the bell ringers. The aptly named Natasha Twigg was there, holding an ancient wooden mechanism while she made flowers from bark stripped from twigs. You can even shake hands with Linda Courthold; she began quilting as a form of therapy, but ever since then, she has been doing it for profit.

There is also an activity called the Rag Rugging Workshop, which is a small part of the fun. You’ll see stalls selling homemade fudge, some very nice paintings, and ornaments when you go into the packed hall. You’ll get to listen to the band that plays traditional folk songs, as well; there are a great number of things to try out.

Other than the Lancanshire Craft Fair, there are many other events that will truly be enjoyable. Or even better, you may decide to have your crafts appraised, and you could earn some extra money by becoming an amateur vendor! Hurry and show your skills to the world!