Bell Ringers
There are currently six bells in the St Helen’s tower, although
there is space for eight. The two oldest bells are tenors and date from the
14th century. They are inscribed “Jesus of Nazareth, King of
the Jews, Son of God” and “Hail Mary, full of grace, God
be with thee”. The third bell is thought to date from 1602, but
was recast in 1843 and inscribed “John Streets Junior and John Smedley,
Church wardens 1843”.
The other three bells are treble bells made by Tailors of Loughborough in 1932
and have no inscription.
The bells are rung for weddings (subject to availability)
and can be requested through the parish office.
They are also rung for other special services throughout the year, and the
St Helen’s team joins up occasionally with bell ringers from other
churches to ring for selected services in the area.
More bell ringers are always needed, so if the idea of making a lot of melody
across Stapleford noise ‘ap-peals’, then we’d be
delighted to see you. Practices are on Monday evenings 7.15-8.30 pm (excluding
Bank Holidays) and are open to all. The only criteria are you need to be over
14 years old and fit enough to climb the winding staircase of the bell tower!
It’s great fun and well worth taking the time to learn the skill to be
able to ring out a rousing peal or two to call the faithful to church!
For more information about bell ringing in the area contact the Southwell
Diocesan Guild website - www.southwelldg.org.uk