Now that rings a bell... village appeal goes like the clappers

Residents in North Rigton, near Harrogate, and its surrounding villages, launched the appeal last year to raise the money to buy the peal of six bells for St John the Evangelist Church.

And following a huge response from the community, the bells have now been installed.

It is hoped they will be dedicated in time for newly trained bell ringers from across the area to ring out in celebration on Easter Sunday.

“The appeal has been a great success and we are very grateful to all those who have donated, become sponsors and volunteers,” said John Hopkins, chairman of the Almscliffe Villages Community Association which organised the appeal.

“People from North Rigton and surrounding villages are really getting into bell ringing in a big way.

“An adult group has been formed and practice on Tuesday evenings.

“We have two bell ringing teams and continue to welcome anyone interested in learning to ring.”

Anyone wishing to get involved with the bell ringing teams, can contact Mr Hopkins on 01423 734745 or visit www.northrigton.org.