Our Bells
Two churches, two rings of bells, each with a story stretching back centuries.
The bells of St Mary’s and St Peter’s continue to call the parish together for worship, and to mark weddings and special occasions today. For more information, please contact the Parish Office.
St Mary’s Bells
History
St Mary’s has had bells in its tower for centuries. The present ring of eight bells was largely cast in 1734 by Richard Phelps at the Whitechapel Bell Foundry. In 1829, Thomas Mears cast two further bells and recast the tenor, the largest bell in the ring.
Five of the original 1734 bells still hang in the tower today and are listed for preservation by the Council for the Care of Churches.
In 1999, a survey found cracks in three of the bells. They were removed in 2002, repaired and sent to the Whitechapel Bell Foundry for retuning, then rehung with new wheels, headstocks and fittings. The restored bells were reconsecrated in a special service that same year.
Ringing Today
Today, St Mary’s has a ring of eight bells, the tenor weighing 16 cwt 3 qtr 1 lb and tuned to F. St Mary’s bells are rung for Sunday services and for special occasions.
New ringers are always welcome and no previous experience is needed to start learning. Practices are held weekly at St Mary’s on most Friday evenings from 7.30 to 9pm. For more information about joining the bell ringers contact the secretary.
To find out more about the rich history of St Mary's, visit our History of St Mary's page
St Peter’s Bells
History
St Peter’s Church was consecrated in 1894, funded by Sir Edward Clarke, the barrister and Member of Parliament who paid for the church to be built. Soon after, Sir Edward also paid for a peal of eight bells to be installed, the largest of which was named “Sir Edward” in his honour. His family also gave much of the church’s stained glass and other furnishings.
Ringing Today
Today, St Peter’s has a ring of eight bells (tenor 15 ½ cwt in F).
St Peter’s bells are rung ahead of the 9:30am Sunday service, with ringers gathering from 9am. Visitors are welcome to watch or to find out about learning to ring.
Visit St Peter’s History page to find out more about it’s rich history.