History
St Margaret’s church has a ring of 8 bells, hung in a tower built around 1470, and stands nearly 100ft high. Just to get to the ringing chamber, there are 40 steps up the spiral staircase. The current oldest bell dates from 1582, but records show a previous bell dating back to at least 1517. Between 1773 and 1913, Rainham had a ring of 6 bells.
In 1913, the original 6 bells were rehung in a new steel frame, and 2 bells were added to create the current ring of 8. In 1982, the bells were rehung on new fittings (roller bearings), and only regular maintenance has been required since.
On 29th October 1913, the first peal on 8 bells was rung, and on the same day in 2013, another peal was rung to celebrate the 100th anniversary of this achievement.
More details are available at Love’s Guide to the Church Bells of Kent
[Photo: Paul C, Johnson]
WHAT IS BELL RINGING ALL ABOUT?
Bell ringing is a team activity that stimulates the brain and helps keep you fit. It also makes a glorious sound! Many consider ringing to be their contribution to church life, others do it for the pure pleasure it brings. Music is created by moving bells up and down in the ringing order to a defined sequence or changes, or a method. Learning a few simple methods allows ringers to join in with other bands in towers around the world.
Ringers come from all walks of life and range in age from ten to those in their eighties.
“When I’m ringing, I forget all the tensions and frustrations of the day. Even better, you couldn’t wish for a nicer group of friends.”
BECOME A BELL RINGER
Bellringing – the ultimate team activity – join a tradition dating back 400 years.
When are bells rung?
- For church services.
- For weddings.
- For special occasions.
- For ringers’ practice and pleasure.
What’s in it for me?
A hobby which involves:
- Being part of a team.
- Providing a service for the church.
- A good social life.
- Continually learning something new.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO LEARN?
Initial teaching takes place on a one-to-one basis, and most beginners will be ready to ring with a band in a few weeks or months. The basic skill lies in being able to control a bell that rotates a full circle using a rope attached to a wheel.
There is always something new to learn, and ringers progress at their own pace depending on the time and effort they devote to increasing their practical experience. If you are interested in the idea of becoming a ringer, get in touch with the church office: office@rainhamchurch.co.uk
More details are available at CCCBR About Us – Kent County Association of Change Ringers