The parishioners of St Alban’s Church, Withernwick, have more than Christmas to celebrate at the end of 2020, with the return of the Church bells.
Two years ago, the hard decision was made to send the bells of for renovation whilst the church roof was being renewed – an opportunity that was too good to miss as the scaffolding was already in place. Since that time, the church tower has remained silent.
What followed was a substantial amount of fundraising, which included a large grant from the Listed Places of Worship Roof Repair Fund and a donation from the Windfarm Fund, that allowed new life to be breathed into this 12th century building. Now, the bells join not only a fully repaired roof, but a beautifully restored weather cock.
Anne Wood, Churchwarden of St Alban’s, said; “only a few people here can remember hearing them, so there was great excitement when the word was ‘The bells are coming back!’”
“We watched as the bells were hauled up and put in position then we had a lesson in ringing from the bell hangers - not as easy as it looks - and we were off! The bells have a lovely mellow tone and it’s wonderful to hear them ringing out across the village. Our thanks to everyone who helped us to raise the money for this and to the Windfarm Fund for their generous donation.”
“Whatever else we have for Christmas, the bells will ring again in Withernwick”.