St Mary’s Church in Ketton has six full size bells, the heaviest (the tenor) is over half a tonne, the lightest (the treble) is a quarter of a tonne. They were cast and recast at various dates in history, the oldest is bell 4 cast in 1598, the youngest is the treble cast in 1748.
In 1862 an inspection of the tower and steeple showed cracks. The huge wooden frame carrying the bells had come loose and was acting as a battering ram against the walls. It was decided that full change ringing (where the bell swings from one vertical position round to the other) had to cease, and so the wheels were removed.
Various bracing girders and a strap around the outside of the tower were installed. A new framework of oak and iron was made and the bells were rehung meaning the bells could now only be chimed.
This means that the bells are perfectly safe to ring, no damage can be done to either bell or ringer and new ringers can get going within a few minutes.
At 10am every Sunday morning a small group of people, usually between four and seven arrive at St Mary’s Church in Ketton. They disappear through a small door on the right hand side of the Church and make their way up to the belfry to summon the congregation to worship.
The bells are also rung for evensong services and weddings. They have also been rung to celebrate members of the village who have reached a significant birthday and also to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III.
St Mary’s Church are also fortunate in having an original set of nineteen handbells. These bells are over 150 years old. Because of their unique profile and the letters JT on the crowns we know that they were made before 1892 at John Taylor’s foundry in Loughborough. The handbell team perform each Christmas at various care homes and in church before the carol service. They have also performed at many other venues over the years when requested including the village Wassail.
If you would like to have a go at bellringing or are interested in joining our very friendly, happy team please contact:
Tower Captain, Karen Wade
Tel: 07834 524537
Email: kwade65@btinternet.com