CONSIDERING he did not take up bellringing until middle age, 90-year-old Claude Gage of Okehampton has certainly made up for it since — a year ago he notched up his 500th tower and he shows no signs of slowing down.
Claude's father was a ringer and wanted him to learn the skill as a young boy but he didn't want to know.
'I was too busy with football and other things but there have been many times when I wish I had,' he said.
Born in Somerset where his nephew rings, it wasn't until Claude had lived in Okehampton for quite a few years that he took up the hobby that has kept him busy for so long.
On a trip to Staffordshire just over a year ago he notched up his 500th tower and has added another 45 since. His ringing travels have taken him all over the British Isles and up and down many thousands of steep and winding steps including those of 19 cathedrals with up to 14 bells each.
Claude, the oldest member of the bellringing team at Okehampton Parish Church, continues to play three times a week and more in the wedding season.
When asked what keeps him so fit, he said: 'Ringing, of course — you have got to have an interest in life — and good regular food and drink.
'I thank the good Lord above every day for what I am able to do.'
Secretary of the Okehampton Bellringers Zoe Bradshaw, who has been ringing nearly as long as Claude said: 'I am proud to know Claude — his sense of commitment and loyalty to his hobby and to other people that practice is second to none. He is an example to everybody.'
Anyone who has the commitment and drive to learn the worthwhile skill of bellringing can contact team captain John Orchard on 01837 52047.