Bellringing at Wonersh
The sound of bells ringing out from St John the Baptist Church is one of the most recognisable and much-loved signs of village life. Bellringing is an ancient English tradition that combines rhythm, teamwork, and challenge—and at Wonersh, we are proud to keep it alive.
About Our Bells
The current peal of eight bells was cast in 1958 by the Mears Whitechapel Bell Foundry in London, and is known for being especially tuneful and easy to ring, with a tenor bell weighing 11½ cwt.
Before this, the tower housed a ring of six bells—five cast in 1727 by Richard Phelps of Whitechapel, and a sixth added in 1804 as a gift from the 2nd Lord Grantley.
You can download more detailed information about the history and specifications of the bells here.
Peals and Celebrations
To mark the 50th anniversary of the bells in 2008, our team rang a full peal of 5,040 changes on 26th April—just under three hours of continuous ringing. This echoed the very first full peal rung on these bells in 1965, using the same method.
Our peal boards in the ringing chamber also commemorate special occasions, including:
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A full peal for Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee
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A peal celebrating the appointment of our former vicar, Debbie Sellin, as Bishop of Southampton
If you’re mathematically minded, you may recognise that 5,040 changes represents every possible permutation of seven bells, with the tenor (heaviest bell) ringing last to provide a steady beat:
7 × 6 × 5 × 4 × 3 × 2 × 1 = 5,040
Could You Be a Bellringer?
Bellringers come in all ages and sizes! Ringing is fun, challenging, and rewarding, and brings real joy to others as the bells ring out across the parish—reminding people of the church’s presence, prayer, and welcome.
We are always looking for new ringers to join the team. You don’t need to be strong or musical—just:
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Aged 10 or over
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At least 5 feet tall
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Alert and focused, with a good sense of rhythm
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Physically able to stand and move with control (no great strength required)
If you’re willing to commit to regular practices and Sunday ringing, we would be delighted to teach you this historic craft.
When and How to Join
We practise every Wednesday evening at 8:00pm. You're welcome to come along and watch, or have a go and meet the team.
📞 Contact: Stephen Darvill
☎️ 01483 894606
✉️ stephen.darvill@btinternet.com