Fundraising for St Marys bell restoration is gaining momentum hoping to secure future maintenance and training.
The church is located on South Street. It has a set of eight bells to ring. The bells were last fixed in 1924.
The repairs need seventeen thousand pounds. This will upgrade all the bell mechanics.
The upgrades should last for a century.
The project’s almost at its first funding goal. Bob Hardwick leads this important project. He wants more funds for upkeep and training.
They have raised fifteen thousand pounds already. Donations promised may still arrive soon. The goal is twenty-five thousand pounds total.
This money covers the initial work needed. It also builds a maintenance support fund. Some money will train new bell ringers too.
Two talks will happen at the church today.
The Colfox family will host both talks. They have connections to the church history. One bell has a special mark for their family.
Eddie Colfox will talk about paragliding. He will also offer a flight in a raffle.
Connie Colfox will discuss her work with horses. The talks occur on February 20 at seven PM. Entry will cost five pounds at the door.
There’s a raffle for the paragliding flight. They will have a regular raffle as well. Refreshments will be available to everyone.
Bob stated these talks are the last event. They need this boost for their local funds. The talks have sparked real interest.
They hope to finish the work soon. March and April is the planned time frame. The Bishop of Sherborne will visit in May. He will bless the bells.