St Michael’s limestone bell tower was built in 1887 in celebration of Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee.
Ten years later, a ring of eight bells, cast by John Taylor & Co of Loughborough, were installed to celebrate her Diamond Jubilee. Our bells are well known across the UK and attract ringers from far and wide. An inspection in 1992 by Nicholson Engineering reported that, when installed, they were almost certainly the finest ring of eight in the world. Although it’s possible they have since been equalled they still form one of the finest ringing peals anywhere.
St Michael’s bells have been rung to call people to worship, to celebrate special occasions and to mark important national events ever since they were installed. Indeed, our practice night has been held every Thursday (circumstances allowing) for over 125 years!
Our ringers come from all walks of life and all ages. Most ringers practise once or twice a week and ring before church services on a Sunday. We also ring for weddings, funerals, other local events and, sometimes, just for fun.
Learning to ring
Almost anyone can learn to ring and you can start at any age. Learning to ring is more about technique than it is about strength, musicality or mathematical ability.
Ringing is a team activity, so after the initial teaching, when you’ll learn how to handle your bell, you’ll be able to join in with the rest of the band and start to make a glorious sound! Once mastered, ringing is a skill for life and offers a wealth of new experiences and enjoyment.
If you’d like to have a go, give Ian Campbell a call on 01392 469695 to set up a taster session.
If you prefer, you can simply turn up at our Practice Night every Thursday at 7.30pm.
THE EIGHT BELLS were cast by John Taylor & Co of Loughborough and installed in1897 to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee.
Tower foundation stone