Tim+ wrote:
British diffidence about drawing attention to oneself (and just
losing the habit) has meant that a lot of people are too shy to ring
a bell.

As a pedestrian I often draw attention to myself by shouting "use your
bell" or "where's your bell" as appropriate.

When I'm a pedestrian I much prefer cyclist to ring a bell early that
whiz by unannounced or wobble around waiting for a gap if I haven't
heard them coming.

IME as a cyclist, a bell is more likely to get a positive reaction when
rung early, as opposed to late and demanding immediate action from a
pedestrian who needs time to come to terms with the situation.

--
Mike Barnes
Cheshire, England