It is known that, as long ago as 1612, there were four bells. There
is no recorded date for the first six bells, although one bell bore
a Fylfot cross (swastika) – the bell founder’s mark of
Godfrey Heathcote (1558-1643). In 1700 two further bells were added
and by 1718 there was a full octave of 8 bells. In 1774 the bells
were re-hung.
These bells rang out over the town for a century until, in 1820, a
new peal of 10 bells, with a tenor of 24½ cwt, (1244 Kg) was
cast by Thomas Mears of Whitechapel, London and hung in a wooden frame
at a cost of £337/3/4d. (This is recorded on a plaque mounted
in the Ringing Room). They were considered to be a very fine and musical
peal, and what a celebration took place on their opening!.
On Monday 22nd May 1820 (the day of the opening), and Tuesday 23rd,
no less than six full peals- around 18 hours’ ringing altogether-
were rung by teams from as far away as Oldham, Leeds and Nottingham.
An amazing feat by any standards!
These bells remained in regular use until 1927 when an architect on
inspection declared, that owing to movement of the wooden frame with
the swing of the bells: “ With regard to the ringing of the
bells, chiming only should be permitted, though this restriction might
be re-considered, on restoration of the tower being completed.”
The bells remained ‘silent’ for 20 years.
Although there were hopes of restoring the bells during the 1930s
it was not until 1947, as part of the 600th anniversary of the tower,
the bells were re-cast (Mears & Stainbank-Whitechapel), and mounted
on a metal frame, 8ft. lower. Cost £1960/17/6d. They were ‘baptised’
by Bishop O’Ferrall on 24th May 1947. This is the installation
that you can see now.
During the past 10 years the need for major work became more and
more apparent, and a very comprehensive overhaul was undertaken
in 2001, which should ensure that the bells remain virtually trouble-free
for the foreseeable future. |
