During the recent Bike Ride, Walk & Drive event, Moira, one of our Bike Ride Committee members visited St Mary’s Church, Baconsthorpe where the tubular bells in the church have recently been restored.
Harry Steel, Churchwarden of St Mary’s wrote the following for the church newsletter about the restoration.
“Erected in 1892, the tubular bells were in great need of repair and in December 2024, were removed and taken to Dorset to be repaired by Nicholsons, the only experts in the country capable of doing this, they also constructed a new wooden frame. According to Dove’s Guide for Bellringers, there are only four sets of tubular bells in Norfolk and Baconsthorpe is fortunate to have one of these.
On Sunday 7th September 2025 we were very fortunate to be joined by well-known local bell ringer, Ollie Watson, who, once the Rector had blessed the bells, gave a very dexterous display on the ropes as the eight bells rang out above us all in the bell tower. We hope that the easterly wind took the musical chimes to the centre of the village! What followed were at times rather less rhythmical noises as members of the village and wider Benefice turned their hands to playing the bells.
Much cake was eaten, and tea drunk.
Everyone, of all ages and abilities, is welcome to ‘come and play the bells.’
Please do come and ‘have a go’ whenever you like.”
Moira confirmed that as she ‘had a go’ and thoroughly enjoyed it.
