BELLS AT ST SWITHUN’S

One of the wonderful sounds heard in Leonard Stanley is that of the bells ringing out from St Swithun’s Church.

The church guide book (based on a text by a former incumbent Peter Chicken and then updated by Carolyn Heighway in 1996, and further updated by the present Rector) states
“Unfortunately the four old bells were melted down in 1908 to create a new ring. Markings on the old Treble were those of the 14th century Gloucester foundry: the crowned lettering, cross and stops on the Second were as at Sapperton Second, the work of John Barber of Salisbury c1400. The Third and Tenor were cast by Roger Purdue II and William Coney in 1678. The inscriptions on the Treble and Second were in medieval majescules. The receipt for the purchase by the parishioners of the tower clock and bells still exists dated November 4th 1538.”

Today’s ring of 6 continues therefore a wonderful history of bells in this church. They were recast in 1908 and rehung in their original cages at high level. Some years later, in the 1920’s, movement in the tower led to the bells being lowered to the floor. Restoration work in the late 1920’s included a reinforced floor in the belfry for the bells to be rehung. Unfortunately financial constraints did not allow this to take place until 55 years later, when, in 1982 the bells were rehung and the village once again heard them call people to worship. The generosity of many people through monetary donations and the practical and physical skills and abilities of others made this possible.

Today’s ringers – campanologists - are ably led by the Tower Captain Richard Page, who took over from Neil Amphlett in 2007/8. The practice night is Thursdays from 7:30pm and they always welcome those who would like to learn this art. Why not think about joining them?