St. Mary’s Church, stands proudly at the ‘top end’ of the village of Elmley Castle.
The Church dates from Norman times but its present appearance is largely of the later medieval periods.

The church currently boasts a peal of six bells, all regularly used for weddings and many other local celebrations and events.
The oldest bell in the peal dates back to 1420 and the newest of the group is a mere 62 years old.
The bells were immortalised by Alfred Housman’s Poem Bredon Hill

WHY NEW BELLS?

The present six bells were re-hung in a ‘modest way’ in the wooden frame in 1948. The bells are ‘out of tune, heavy, lumpy and difficult to handle’, especially so for novice ringers.

The old wooden frame ‘moves around’ under the changing loads of the ringing bells causing additional dynamic problems.

WHAT DO WE PROPOSE?

The proposed work will be carried out in three phases, each phase initiated as and when funds become available. Phase I Build and erect a new and more substantial bell frame manufactured in steel and cast iron to replace the original wooden frame. The new bell frame will be installed on an existing floor below the clock. Retire bell nos. 1 and 3 as both these bells are now untuneable and retain for their historical importance. Retain bells no. 2, 4, 5 and 6 and re-hang them in the new frame. The new frame will have a total capacity of ten bells in all allowing room for the proposed phase II and phase III expansions.

Phase II When funds allow hang two new additional treble bells in the new bell frame. This will give the Church a total peal of eight bells.

Phase III Add two further treble bells to give a total peal of ten bells. This would give a complete front six peal, ideal for teaching novice bell ringers.

WHO WILL CARRY OUT THE WORK?

We intend to use local labour wherever and whenever possible. It is highly probable that the new bells would be cast at John Taylor’s bell foundry at Loughborough, Leceistershire where a visit to witness the casting process would be arranged. Elmley bell ringers are extremely fortunate in having the expertise of Bill Berry available for consultation, a professional bell hanger for over 40 years giving his valuable time to the project free of charge.

HOW MUCH DO WE NEED?

The proposed work will involve a total investment of £115,000. The intention is to raise the money through organized and sponsored events, raffles, etc along with grants and donations.

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

There are lots of ways to help us raise funds. You don’t have to give money (although that’s nice!)
Check out all the ways you can help raise funds without giving money and without much effort!

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