The Church Bell Restoration 2023/2024
On 17th September 2024 the original three bells plus three more arrived back at St Mary’s after a long absence. Find out about the restoration and additional bells being installed at our church.
Restoration
There were three bells hanging in the bell tower up until December 2023 when they were taken down for major restoration work to the bells and the wooden bell frame in the tower. On September 17th 2024 the bells returned with an additional three bells giving St Mary’s a peal of six bells for the first time. The bell frame had been of concern for a number of years. Marshchapel Arts agreed to provide a starter fund of £3000 and this was built upon by grants, and generous donations from those listed below;
- Bell Repair Fund of the Lincoln Diocese Guild of Bell Ringers
- Northern Branch of Lincoln Diocese Guild of Bellringers
- The Sharpe Trust
There is a group of bell ringers who meet on Tuesday evenings. All welcome to join in and learn the art of campanology.
Bell Ringing
With the addition of three bells making a total of six at St Mary’s, we are looking for more people to try their hand at bell ringing (Campanology).
There is a group of friendly bell ringers who meet on Tuesday evenings at 7pm. All welcome to join in and learn the art of campanology. Contact Dennis on 07434 879123 for more information.
2023 Bells Removed
In November 2023 the old wooden frame which was in a bad state of repair was removed with the three bells by a group of volunteers led by Peter Buck and Blythe’s of Newark.
The bells were removed and the majority of the wooden frame taken down over a two week period. Much of the frame had been damaged by woodworm and damp over the many years it had been in situ. Raising funds through donations from Marshchapel Arts and other groups covered the costs for the renovation and more importantly give the belltower an extra three bells for a peal of six.
2024 Works
From 17th September 2024 until 5th November six bells were hung on a new steel frame at the church. We will have images and videos of this important event on this page.
The main tasks for 2024 were;
- Refurbish existing three bells and adapt three new bells to match
- Install scaffolding to support mid tower floor as working platform
- To clear old wooden bell fame from tower
- Create new supports in stone work for new frame
- Refurbish existing bell wheels and provide three new wheels
- Fit and install new steel bell frame
- Fit and install the six bells with new bearings, stays, pulleys and bell ropes throughout
- Checks and Tests
Village Hall
The hall was built on the current site in 1946. It hosts many events throughout the week and on a monthly basis. Available for hire throughout the year.
St Mary’s Church
The church of St Mary’s is known locally as ‘The Cathedral of the Marshes’. The church has monthly services and is open during daylight hours for visitors.
The Chapel
The Chapel is well supported by the village and holds events as well as a weekly ‘pop-in’ lunch. There are also numerous other groups who use the facilities.
Marshchapel Arts
Marshchapel Arts host various music concerts and art exhibitions at St Mary’s church which are always well supported by the community and beyond.