YORK Minster’s bell-ringing team are joining cathedrals and churches across the UK in ringing the bells to alert people to the climate emergency ahead of COP 26.

The Minster is taking part in Ring Out For Climate on the eve of COP 26 Climate Change conference in Glasgow, on Saturday, October 30, at 6pm.

The idea was thought up by environmentalist Edward Gildea who attends St Mary’s Church in Essex, inspired by Clap for Carers during the pandemic, as church bells are traditionally rang to mark significant events, such as victory in war, or as a warning.

The Right Revd Dr Jonathan Frost, Dean of York and Bishop of Portsmouth designate said: “People all over the world – particularly young people who will inherit this problem – are fed up with the excuses and inaction.

“There is anticipation for genuine outcomes from COP26 - humanity will hold Governments to account for the decisions they take – or don’t take – in Glasgow.

“The question we each need to ask is, ‘what more can I do to save my planet, deliver climate justice and protect God’s creation for the benefit of all.”