THURLSTONE Handbell Ringers were formed in 1855.
The minutes of Thurlstone School Board stated that the bell ringers should always have a room in which to rehearse.
They won the Yorkshire Handbell Ringers Association Shield and Cup in 1930, 1931 and 1932 and first prize in the English Championships of 1930.
The name was changed to Thurlstone Handbell Orchestra in 1970 and the orchestra went on to win several trophies and presented concerts throughout the country and abroad when they travelled to the USA to take part in a convention of handbell ringers which attracted visitors from all over the world.
They also produced several records and CDs. Their signature tune was Cubley Brook (a local landmark). Alec Dyson was the conductor from 1970 for many years.
 G. Beever, D. Moseley. Front row- D. Hague, B. Hague, M. Watts, J. Matthews and B. Rolling..jpg "The modern orchestra - back row H. Gill, A. Rolling, C. Armitage, S. Rolling Alec Dyson (conductor) G. Beever, D. Moseley. Front row- D. Hague, B. Hague, M. Watts, J. Matthews and B. Rolling.")
Sadly following a decline in members, the orchestra was disbanded in January 2012.
The handballs were donated to Penistone Grammar School to preserve their heritage.
