WHEN a group of women discovered an old trunk in their church more than six years ago, they didn't realise the contents would introduce them to the musical world.

The women members of St Cadoc's Church, Raglan, may have been hoping for treasure when they found the trunk in 1998 - but they found a large number of handbells, which were in a sorry state.

The group of women, aged between 50 and 70, decided to have the bells restored and learned to play them as a project for the Millennium celebrations, and formed a musical group, the St Cadoc's Millennium Chimes.

The women's group raised funds to cover any costs for the restoration, and staged their first performance on New Year's Day 2000.

Margaret Lawrence said: "We have since played for various groups and events in our area, and we are members of the Handbell Ringers of Great Britain.

"We have attended many workshops and rallies but have not come across any other groups from our diocese.

"We don't charge people to watch us but if they want to give a donation, that's fine."

The women also raised more than £500 to buy a set of bell plates, a lighter version of handbells, for the children at Raglan Controlled Voluntary Primary School.

The eight dedicated handbell ringers are led by Linda Lewis, who joined the group in 2002.

"Linda stepped forward to assist us and the group have made positive progress thanks to her hard work," said Ms Lawrence.

Group member Deanne Watkins said: "It's good for the brain, it's relaxing because you concentrate on the music and it's good fun!" Would-be handbell ringers in Gwent can contact Ms Lawrence on 01291 650899.