Our two-tier oak bell frame is unstable which is making ringing the bells increasingly difficult . Replacement was recommended 90 years ago! We now have the enthusiasm and drive, and indeed the necessity, to raise the money for a replacement frame to ensure Church bells continue to be heard in Richmond. We will 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 will be displayed for all to enjoy. An HLF grant will allow us to research the history of bells, bell ringing and bell ringers in Richmond over the past 500 years.
17th November 2016 The beginning of a new era in Richmond ringing.
Our first new bells are cast at John Taylor's bell foundry, Loughborough
Our first new bells are cast at John Taylor's bell foundry, Loughborough
13/2/17. All 8 bells have now been cast and tuned. The frame is being constructed. Work will start in St Mary's removing the old frame and bells on March 13th. The last ring on the old bells will be on March 12.
12 March 2017 Work has started. Follow the work on our Richmond bells blog
Bell chamber with all the bells removed. Waiting to have the remainder of the frame removed and new steel frame and bells installed. Courtesy of Guy Carpenter www.gullwingphotography.co.uk/
Rediscovered gargoyle supporting the belfry floor
Looking up to the ceiling of the empty belfry
Jennifer showing our rediscovered alcove under the plaster. This would have originally led out to the pre-Gilbert Scott- restoration roof.
The Warner tenor which we hope will find a home in Kerala Southern India.
The rotten main base supporting beam - destined to fail in the next year or two perhaps with disastrous results.
The new bells
The cleaned decoration on the Samuel Smith 1697 original 7th bell
The return of the c1500 Seliok bell
The dedication of the bells (courtesy of Guy Carpenter Gullwing Photography)
The dedication of the bells (courtesy of Guy Carpenter Gullwing Photography)
The dedication of the bells (courtesy of Guy Carpenter Gullwing Photography)
Mock up of our frame at the bellfounders
The belfry with primary beams in place
7 of the 8 new bells in place