Pip Dillistone's first handbell peal was Bristol Maximus, which rapidly shot to the top position on BellBoard.

Where are you based?

Bournemouth, Dorset

When and where did you learn to ring handbells?

In Southampton, around 2016. Philip Moyes, Oliver Chaloner and myself taught ourselves essentially from scratch.

Who has influenced your handbell ringing?

I probably owe most to Chris Hughes and Simon Feather, who created the Abel Ringing Simulator. Simon G and Tina's blog also formed a very important part of my introduction to handbell ringing.

Blue lines, place notation or structure?

All three interchangeably, depending on method, stage, how my brain is working at the time. When ringing, you have to let the information come to you in whatever format it chooses.

Trebles or tenors?

I normally prefer to ring inside because it's more interesting, but the trebles can present their own challenges... Pass!

Quarters or peals?

Peals

What is the most unusual place in which you have rung handbells?

In the kitchen. In my pyjamas.

What is your favourite handbell-ringing anecdote?

I once asked Sam Senior, a contemporary of mine at Southampton, what on earth induced him to tap out a full quarter peal of Plain Bob Maximus by himself on the SUGCR handbells. As I recall, his response was something to the effect of, "I have no idea!"

Any further comments about handbell ringing in general? 

I would recommend anyone who has ever been curious about it to give it a try. Not only is it fun (dangerously so), but it is also the single best way to become a better ringer overall, in my opinion. Among other things, you'll find it improves your method knowledge, your striking, your humility...!

Next time: Mark Eccleston