On Sunday 28th April, St Andrew’s Church in Bishop Auckland marks a sensational milestone as it reaches 750 years of heritage.
In honour of this, the church will host a quarter peal of eight bells, which have been ringing out over the community since the 15th Century.
The ringing of the bells will start at 1pm and continue for a full hour, a feat of true athleticism, filling the town with their harmonic melody. Following this, a special service will take place at 2pm, accompanied by the Lord Lieutenant of County Durham Mrs Sue Snowdon, the Dean of Durham Very Revd Dr Philip Plyming and St John’s School Choir.
The rededication of St Andrew’s church bells and blessing of the new ropes will be a unique occasion, inviting people from all walks of life to join in the festivities, regardless of faith.
After the service, hospitality and refreshments will be provided and guests will have the opportunity to visit the ringing room to watch the bell ringers in action as well as being invited to ring handbells. The Northeast Bell Ringing community will be making the pilgrimage to also take to the ropes under their new vestiture.
“The bells are a bridge between the church and community joining us together in our shared heritage, and are part of our identity, giving a sense of meaning, purpose and belonging. They ring for church and community and anyone in the area can ask for the bells to be rung for a special occasion. Our special service on 28th April is all about celebration and regeneration, as we have the bells ringing again for our town. Faith or no faith, please come along to this day of true celebration, to celebrate something very special here in our local community”
Marilyn Weerasinghe, Tower Captain for the Bells
“I am delighted that such an exciting programme of events has been planned to recognise and celebrate the 750th anniversary of St Andrew’s Church. Occasions which will reflect the Church’s rich history, support the continuance of its work today and uplift community spirit”.
Mrs Sue Snowdon, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant
Built like a mini cathedral, St Andrew’s once housed expelled monks from Durham Cathedral and became a place for learning as well as worship until 1541 when it became a Parish Church. Through the ages it’s continued as a place of worship for all, undergoing many changes but always acting as a steadfast cornerstone for the local community.
Steeped in history, this peaceful building houses many objects of historical interest, such as Anglo-Saxon fragments in a stone cross, beautifully carved misericords on the underside of folding seats, Knight Pollard’s life-size effigy and a stone tablet featuring names that date back to William the Conqueror.
As a symbol of community spirit and Bishop Auckland’s ongoing regeneration, the church bells serve as a beacon of hope and renewal. Mark your calendars for Sunday 28th to celebrate 750 years of St Andrew’s Church, a rich heritage that binds the community.
Can’t make it? Then catch these glorious bells on Saturday May 4th during a full 4-hour peal … an incredible test of stamina and strength from our bell ringers! Bring a picnic, bask in the ambiance, and ensure the legacy of these bells for years to come!
