THE bells of St Denys Church in St Dennis in the Clay Country have been rung out in celebration at the end of a restoration project.
The church was packed for a special service when the bells were blessed. Among those in attendance were representatives from local community groups, the bell ringing community of Cornwall and those organisations that had given grants. Many people from the village who had supported the project were also there.
The Bishop of St Germans, the Rt Rev Hugh Nelson, led the service and in his address he spoke about bells being part of the soundscape of our lives as they call us to prayer, mark family and national occasions and give warnings – all part of life but all so familiar and comforting.
A spokesperson for the bells project said: “This sentiment has been echoed by so many people who have been overjoyed to hear the bells ringing once again. The bishop also acknowledged the great sense of community working together that is evident in St Dennis.
“During the service, ringers made pledges to continue to practise their craft and the bells were rung by local and visiting ringers. The congregation sang out heartily the hymns that had been specially chosen for the event.
“After the service all were treated to refreshments – it’s never too early to have tea and scones – by the hardworking team from the St Dennis Bells and Ringers Committee.
“A team of new ringers is currently learning the ropes – quite literally – and are always happy to take on new or returning ringers.
“Plans are in place to commemorate the restoration with a specially commissioned plaque and also to install a camera in the tower so that everyone can see, as well as hear, what happens when the bells are rung.”
The restoration scheme began last year after the enthusiastic committee was formed to fundraise and plan the work which had a projected cost of £63,000.
Taylors Bell Foundry of Loughborough has worked on the project which has also involved volunteers. Organisers say the support of local people has been outstanding.