The Bells of St Mary the Virgin, Thorncombe
When first hung, the 5 bells in the old church were the heaviest ring of 5 bells in the Diocese of Salisbury, the second heaviest in England and the fourth heaviest in the world, the total weight being almost 3 tons. The oldest bell is dated 1613. The tenor bell, recast in 1936 bears the inscription:
"I to the Church the living call
And to the grave do summon all."
In 1962 the bells were increased to a peal of 8 and rehung (from A Short History and Guide by P.R. MacCrimmon, 1991).
The present band of ringers numbering 12 practice throughout the year, except August, on Wednesday evening at 7:30 pm and welcome all visitors including those willing to learn. The band rings faithfully on Sunday mornings for the 10:30 am service and or Weddings by private arrangement through the team Rector.
They also ring in the New Year and for special National celebrations and commemorations. This peal of bells produces a fine sound echoing around the valleys and hills of the countryside. Many bands of visiting ringers prize the peals they have rung here and we the resident band are honoured to continue the long line of local ringers through the centuries.
Liz Rutter
Captain - Mrs Pauline Holt 01460 30428.
Ringing Master - Nigel Higgins
Correspondent - Mary Marsh 01460 30139
Tower Keeper - Dave Goodall