WORCESTER Cathedral's bells will sound out for four hours for a very special reason this weekend.
The cathedral’s bell ringers will attempt a full peal which, if successful, will last about 4 hours on Saturday, January 20.
The largest bell weighs a massive two and a half tonnes and will be rung by just one person for the duration, Chris Phillips.
Mr Phillips, age 51 and from Leigh Sinton, was diagnosed with Parkinson's and will be raising money for Parkinson's UK by taking on the challenge.
Already he has managed to raise over £2,000 for the charity.
David Bagley, a fellow bell ringer who has known Mr Phillips for over 35 years, said: "This is a massive physical challenge for any experienced bell ringer to undertake, but what makes this Saturday’s performance extraordinary is that it will be rung by Chris Phillips.
"Just three years ago, Chris was diagnosed with Parkinson’s.
"This is a progressive neurological condition causing problems in the brain which get worse over time.
"There is no cure.
"Instead of resigning himself to the fact that he’s got Parkinson’s, Chris is more of the opinion that Parkinson’s hasn’t got him, and he has been doing his very best to get on with life alongside Tracey and their 8-year-old daughter Amelia.
"For several months now, Chris has been concentrating on his fitness and stamina.
"This will improve his chances of ringing a heavy bell for four hours, as well as his ability to cope with his condition.
"Good luck Chris."
The challenge begins at 10am.
Parkinson's disease is a condition in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged over many years, according to the NHS.
The main symptoms of Parkinson's disease include involuntary shaking of particular parts of the body, slow movement as well as stiff and inflexible muscles.
Parkinson's UK funds research into the disease as well as provides information and support to people living with Parkinson's and their families.
To donate, visit rwrld.uk/mugn or donations can be made in person at Worcester Cathedral where people will be able to listen to the bells being rung.
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