£120,000 appeal for St Annes Parish Church bells upgrade

A landmark Fylde church has launched a £120,000 fund-raising drive to refurbish its bells in time to celebrate its 150th anniversary in August 2023.
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The aim is to rehang and augment the bells of St Annes Parish Church, which opened its doors in 1873 when the area was just a tiny farming settlement in the dunes, and ended up giving its name to the town.

The bells first rang out across St Annes in 1891, after the Clifton family paid for the addition of a bell tower to the existing church building, which they had also funded.

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Stuart Newton, bell captain at the church, said the seeds of the project effectively began around three years ago, after a series of minor repairs, including a broken clapper, had to be carried out to keep the bells going.

St Annes Parish ChurchSt Annes Parish Church
St Annes Parish Church

“In 2019, a survey by Taylor’s Bellfoundry indicated that all the bell fittings were reaching the end of their operational life and that major work would be necessary to keep the bells ringing safely into the future,” said Mr Newton.

“Under the project, the bells would be removed, retuned and rehung with new fittings in the existing oak frame and, if sufficient funds are raised, it would be possible to augment the peal of bells from eight to 10.

“The existing training equipment will also be upgraded to help ensure that the next generation of ringers can be taught effectively.

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“I believe this project is a very fitting way to mark the anniversary. Back in the 1870’s, Lady Eleanor Clifton was a great visionary and benefactor and it would be a marvellous achievement if the current generation can help ensure that the bells will continue to be able to ring out. Any donations received, however large or small, will be most gratefully received.”

St Annes Parish Church bells, which it is intended to refurbish in time for 2023St Annes Parish Church bells, which it is intended to refurbish in time for 2023
St Annes Parish Church bells, which it is intended to refurbish in time for 2023

A Just Giving page has been set up and as soon as conditions allow, the aim is to hold fundraising events.

“Businesses, individuals or families will be able to sponsor items of the bell fittings.” he added. “Grants will also be sought and, as many of those offer match funding, local donations will help us maximise any potential revenue from such grants.”

Details at www.justgiving.com/campaign/bellproject2023

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