St Mary’s has 6 bells which were cast by John Taylor’s Bellfounders in 1922, although the first indication that the church had bells was in Edwardian times.
The bell frame is made of solid oak and installed by Taylors in 1881.
The bells are rung regularly for Sunday services, weddings and occasionally for funerals.
The ringing chamber and belfry, which are reached by a narrow stone staircase, are above the baptistry.
The single bell rope seen hanging in the baptistry is rung 5 minutes before the service; it is a last call for people to come and worship.
Above is a photo of some members of our bell ringing team, led by Sharon Lyons, our Tower Captain.
For December 2023 Sharon wrote for our Church Magazine
TOWER BELLS 🔔
Through the autumn, the bell ringers have had the privilege to ring at several weddings. The ringers continue to attend the monthly branch meetings on the Wirral where we get the opportunity to learn new methods and develop our ringing skills.
Up to Christmas we have been collecting chocolate treats and advent calendars which will be donated to the Delamere Centre. Thank you to everyone.
Bell practice is Thursday evening 7.00pm – 8.00pm. Anyone looking for a new hobby in the New Year why not pop along?
HANDBELLS NEWS
Once again the ringers are busy practising for the Christmas services. Thursday 6.00pm – 6.50pm in church. The ringers are happy to do visits in the lead up to Christmas to share an hour of carols and hand bell ringing.
For any further information please contact Sharon via contactstmaryseastham@gmail.com