A NEW set of six bell ropes have been installed in the 15th century bell tower of St Mary’s Sydenham Damerel — allowing the bells to be rung once again.

The ropes, with sallies resplendent in the Devon county colours of green, white and black, were purchased thanks to fundraising and generous donations from parishioners and the Norse Group’s community fund.

The new ropes were blessed by Rev Andy Atkins at a special Songs of Praise service in the church on Sunday, September 22.

The bells were rung before and after the service by the enthusiastic ringing team under bell captain Peter Bazley. After the service the occasion was celebrated with an informal reception and the donors were thanked formally.

Churchwarden Margaret Hurdwell said: ‘We are delighted that, after a long period without bells, our little church now has a flourishing group of ringers very well supported by experienced members from other local teams. I am so grateful for the kindness of those who contributed their time and money to make this happen and to ensure that St Mary’s remains the thriving centre of our community.’