Ring Out the Bells
Ring Out the Bells: Saving a Piece of Gloucestershire’s Heritage at Bromesberrow Church
After just 12 months of dedicated fundraising, we are thrilled to share that a major community restoration project is officially underway at Bromesberrow Church!
Here at the Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust, we are incredibly proud to support projects that preserve our county's rich history, and the story of Bromesberrow's bells is a perfect example of community spirit saving local heritage.
A Legacy Since 1773
The bells at Bromesberrow have formed the soundtrack to village life for over 250 years. Cast and installed in 1773 by the renowned Thomas Rudhall of Gloucester, the peal of six bells (the largest of which weighs around 200kg) has been rung to mark national events, births, deaths, and marriages.
However, in recent years, this unique piece of Gloucestershire’s social heritage faced a serious threat.
The wooden frame in which the bells hang had become dangerously unstable, and the supporting ironwork had begun to deteriorate. Without major intervention, these historic bells would have inevitably fallen silent.
"A few years ago, the bellringers noticed that the frame was rocking when the bells were rung. Since then, things have got worse, and on close inspection, we realised that only a full restoration programme would ensure the bells were saved."
— Simon Ridley, Project Manager
Celebrating Ancient Craftsmanship
Thanks to a highly successful fundraising campaign, the bells are now being secured for future generations.
On Thursday, May 21st, the bells were carefully removed from the tower by Whites of Appleton Bellhangers, assisted by a team of enthusiastic local volunteers. They have been transported away to be expertly tuned and fitted with new running gear.
While the bells are away, something truly special is happening back in the tower. A brand-new hardwood bell frame is being constructed—the first of its kind in the UK for over 30 years. This represents a magnificent celebration of ancient craftsmanship and traditional techniques.
Driven by the Community
This ambitious project wouldn't be possible without the dedication of the local volunteers who have assisted Whites of Appleton every step of the way.
"We are delighted that we have been able to preserve for future generations the bells of Bromesberrow Church and are immensely thankful for everyone who assisted with this project. Without the help of grant-making bodies and several generous donors, we would not be able to undertake such an ambitious project."
— Nick Winter, Church Warden
"We were worried that this social heritage may have been lost and the bells fallen silent. Now, thanks to this successful restoration, the bells will be heard for many more years."
— Georgina Jones, Appeal Treasurer
A Heartfelt Thank You
The project has been brought to life through the generosity of numerous grants, gifts, and local donors. Funding has been provided by:
- The Gloucestershire Historic Churches Trust (GHCT)
- The Garfield and Weston Foundation
- The Benefact Trust
- Gloucester and Bristol Association of Church Bellringers
- The Julia Rausing Trust
- The D G Albright Trust
A special note of immense gratitude goes to Pippa and Andrew Walker, who generously sponsored the 3rd and 4th bells, as well as to several other local donors who made this vision a reality.
Get Involved: Call for New Bellringers!
The bells are anticipated to return to Bromesberrow in the autumn to ring out once again. With their return, a new chapter begins, as the church will commence training for new bellringers.
This project not only restores the physical bells but also offers a unique opportunity for community members to learn the beautiful art of English Change Ringing.
Are you interested in taking part in this fascinating form of music?
We are actively seeking potential new bellringers! If you would like to know more, please reach out to Project Manager Simon Ridley at: ringingsimon1980@btinternet.com
