Bells (St P)
St Peter’s Church Bells
Service ringing on the first and third Sunday evenings of each month takes place only with the assistance of ringers from neighbouring towers in the Diocesan Guild of Church Bell Ringers. The majestic sound of ten or twelve bells is seldom heard, usually only if the Sunday morning or evening service at St Mary’s is cancelled and the St Mary’s ringers then come to St Peter’s. On these occasions favourable comments suggest that the congregation detects and appreciates the difference between five or six bells rung and the fuller sound of a ring of ten or twelve bells.
Although St Peter’s remains affiliated to the Diocesan Guild (Nottingham district) only six ringers are now registered, with annual subscriptions paid: Michael Poppleston (contact), Sue Bellamy, Adele Charter, Roger Scholes, Michael Semken & Sylvia Semken. The former tower captain, David Stainsby, although no longer resident locally, is shown as honorary member.
No practice ringing takes place; the Thursday evening practice was discontinued in 2006. Ringing for special occasions, weddings etc, can also be undertaken only with ringers from St Mary’s, West Bridgford, Daybrook, Bulwell and other local churches.
Some small expenditure may soon become necessary to prevent fraying of the ropes as they pass through circular holes between ringing chamber and belfry. This would lessen wear and tear on the ropes and prolong their lives (replacement costs in excess of £100 each, and we have 13 ropes). It is recommended that an estimate be invited from local bell hangers Hayward and Mills Associates.
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