Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson has swung into action in a bid to help refurbish church bells and attract more bell ringers in Colne.
Mr Stephenson raised the issue in the House of Commons after attending a successful practice session at St Bartholomew’s Church, earlier in the year.
Lead by tower captain Kevin Pickup, the enjoyable event was held to try and bring in new recruits and promote the socialising that bell ringing encourages.
Mr Stephenson said: “I was delighted to join the Colne Ringers for a practice session and am full of admiration for what they do.
“I had a go at ringing the bells and joined some of the ringers for a drink after at the Rodney.
“I would encourage anyone who is interested in giving bell ringing a try to get in contact with the tower captain Kevin Pickup or visit the Colne Bells website.
“The group certainly made me feel welcome and they are very keen to find new recruits.
“Following the session I asked a question in the House of Commons about funding for refurbishing church bells as I am keen to help the group with this as well as attracting new ringers.
“I was pleased with the reply which I will be passing on to the ringers.”
The eight bells that hang in St Bartholomew’s belfry have done so for over 100 years and many different people from all over the country have rung them.
The St Bartholomew’s band practices Wednesday evenings on even-dated days only.
Visitors are always welcome.
Ringers usually go on several trips a year to ring at towers across the North-West, Yorkshire and occasionally further afield.
For more information and for a detailed history on Colne Bells visit www.colnebells.org.uk/