17th November 2016 was the beginning of a new era in Richmond ringing as our first new bells were cast at John Taylor's bell foundry, Loughborough
Our two-tier oak bell frame was unstable due to water damage which was making ringing the bells increasingly difficult . Replacement was recommended 90 years ago! After a two year appeal enough money was raised for a replacement frame and to replace the eclectic mix of old bells with a new tuned set of bells and install variable sound control. Our five bells of historic interest are displayed for all to enjoy. A Heritage Lottery Grant allowed us to research the history of bells, bell ringing and bell ringers in Richmond over the past 500 years. For more details of the work and the funded workshops click here.
The first bells are cast at John Taylor Bell foundry
Last ring on the old bells March 2017
The 8 original bells in their oak frame prior to removal. Photo courtesy of Guy Carpenter
1500 Seliok bell being removed prior to refurbishment
Bell chamber with all the bells removed. Guy Carpenter www.gullwingphotography.co.uk/
Rediscovered gargoyle supporting the belfry floor
Looking up to the tower roof from the empty belfry
Jennifer showing our rediscovered alcove under the plaster. This would have originally led onto the pre-Gilbert Scott- restoration roof.
The 1862 Warner tenor which has found a new home in Chemmalammatom South India .
The rotten main base beam - destined to fail perhaps with disastrous results.
The new bells being delivered
The cleaned decoration on the Samuel Smith 1697 original 7th bell, now on display in the belfry
The return of the c1500 Seliok bell now on display in the belfry
The dedication of the bells by Bishop James Bell (courtesy of Guy Carpenter Gullwing Photography)
The dedication of the bells (courtesy of Guy Carpenter Gullwing Photography)
The dedication of the bells by Bishop Bell (courtesy of Guy Carpenter Gullwing Photography)
Mock up of our frame at the bellfounders
The belfry with primary beams in place
Bell no 5 being hoisted into the belfry
7 of the 8 new bells in place
Will they work?
Yes, they do! First ring May 2017
The welcome reception for the Richmond 1862 Warner bell on its arrival in Chemmalamattom in May 2018. Transport costs were paid by the people of Richmond.