Blessing The Bells

This evening the bells, which have been in the church since Monday awaiting transportation to the top of the tower, were blessed. It was a lovely service. The tower captain from the redundant church where the bells are from which closed over six years ago told us some of the history of the bells and how much they meant to him. It was quite emotional. They have also given us various artefacts from their tower including the 1880 rules for bell ringers. He also brought along the original invoice from the foundry for the manufacture and installation of the bells which is photographed here.

Yesterday was another milestone in our ringing career. The tower where we are learning was hosting the branch striking competition and we went along to help serve the tea. One band did not turn up so we were enlisted into a scratch band and took part in the competition. Needless to say we came last but it was another small step on our ringing journey.