St Martin’s church bell set to ring in Plaistow again after revamp
It promises to be one of Plaistow’s most momentous occasions.
The bell, which sits atop St Martin’s Church in Boundary Road, is finally set to ring again after 15 years of silence.
After numerous setbacks, church leaders have finally come up with the funds needed to refurbish the historic bell cot.
It will be taken away by specialists on Monday and returned by Christmas to prick the ears of the community.
Rector, the Rev Patrick Mossop said the cost of the revamp ballooned to more than �43,000 once other structural problems were discovered.
He said: “Every five years we have our inspection and there are always some nasty surprises.
“Of course, church buildings need to be regularly maintained. Originally we thought it would cost about �13,000.
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“It will be very important for those who have been concerned about it.
“Over at St Philips and (Saint James) Church, we have had the odd person comment on how they have been called to prayer by the bells.”
The cash was raised by numerous fund-raising activities, and grants from London over the Border Council and Friends of Essex and East London Churches (FOEC).
The bell’s restoration will come days after the launch of this year’s Ride and Stride. The sponsored bicycle event raises money for the refurbishment of churches.
This year, there will be an extended stride in Newham taking in a dozen or more churches.
It will also include the chance to see the restored bells at the Memorial Community Church in Plaistow.
Keith Gardner, FEOC secretary, said: “We have been very happy to help St Martins and want to help others in Newham.
“Help us to help you by joining in the Stride around Newham.”
Anyone interested in joining the walk and having it sponsored should contact Philippa King at development@memorialcc.org
