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The bells of St. Giles Church, Cheddington last had a major overhaul in 1911, when they were re-hung on a steel frame. Four of the bells were quarter-turned, a fifth re-cast and a treble added. The two oldest bells date from the 16th Century and three from the 17th. (For more historic details, please see....)
It is quite remarkable that these bells have most likely been in regular use since that time, have stayed in such good working order. Unfortunately we do not have any more recent history than 1911, but there is no particular evidence of any major work, apart from the addition of a ringing floor around 25 years ago.
However, as with all moving parts, wear sets in and so we have concluded that essential restoration must be undertaken.
White’s of Appleton have been along to inspect the bells and they concluded that not only should the bearings be replaced, but the cast-in crown staples should be drilled out and new clapper staple units should be provided and to re-bush the clappers with tufnol bushes. The cast-in crown staples can corrode and expand, resulting in a cracked bell, which could be extremely expensive to repair.
To pay for this work, we need to raise at least £11,500.
We see this as an investment for the future in order to maintain the tradion of bell
ringing in this area. We would be most grateful for donations from local
organisations and residents of Cheddington, or former residents of Cheddington
who have maintained an interest in the village.
Donations welcomed
Please could you make cheques payable to 'St Giles Church Bells, Restoration Appeal' and send them to:
If you are a UK Tax Payer, please could you study the note Gift Aid Explained and complete the on-line Gift Aid Form [RTF version - editable] [PDF version - non-editable]
If you wish to make a standing order for regular payments to the fund, please download Standing Order Form [PDF version - non-editable]
Alan Masters - Tower Captain - St. Giles Church, Cheddington