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Treble 2 and 3 Bells

There are five bells. Two date from 1701, and are by William Bagley of Chacombe, Northants. The others date from 1878, and are by John Taylor of Loughborough. There is also a small sanctus bell, which has no marks but by its shape is not less than 200 years old. This century the bells remained silent for about thirty years, until in 1987 a group of village enthusiasts restored them to working order, and they are now rung regularly.

Originally there where three bells in the tower, all cast in 1701 by William Bagley of Chacombe.

In 1878, during the general restoration of the church, the tenor bell (which had been cracked) was recast by John Taylor and Co. of Loughborough. At the same time two new bells where added to make the present ring of five, and the bells were hung in a new frame by Thomas Mallaby of Masham.

The ring was dedicated at a special service on Sunday 25^th. August 1878.

The bells fell out of use in the 1960’s when the beams supporting the frame became unsafe. Following structural repairs to the tower fabric, a group of local volunteers constructed and installed a new steel grillage to support the oak frame. At the same time the fittings were overhauled and new ropes fitted.

The renovated bells were first rung for the Easter Morning Service in 1987.

Details of the bells are given below.

This site is maintained by villagers of Oxhill for the benefit of the community and those interested in the history, news and activities that make the village such a pleasant place to live.

Send mail to the Rector of St. Lawrence Church at rector@oxhill.org.uk.

Last modified: January 31, 2004