Lost Rings of Derby - St Alkmund

A Short History of the Tower and Bells

Alan Rowe

Prior to 1624 there were three bells in the tower, cast by Henry Oldfield. Two of these were dated, 1586 and 1588 respectively. There must have been at least one bell prior to this, as it is recorded that in 1554 the then vicar hanged himself in the tower using one of the bell ropes. A fourth bell was cast in 1624. The bellframe was repaired in 1627.

It appears that two more bells had been added by 1712, as an account of Derby from that year, quoted in 'A Collection of Fragments Illustrative of the History and Antiquities of Derby' states that there were 6 bells, and in 1806 the ringers "rang the peal of triple Bob at St Alkmund's church, which peal has never before been perform'd in this town".

The tenor bell was recast by John Taylor and Co in 1872 after it was cracked by the practice of 'clocking', where a rope is tied directly to the clapper.

A peal in 1882 was the first by the Derby and District Association which had been founded earlier that year and was later to become the Midland Counties Association.

In 1908, the bells were rehung by John Taylor and Co, with the front five being recast. A major contributor to this was R B Chambers, a churchwarden at St Peter's who had played a large part in the rebuilding of the tower there a few years earlier, and was later to become president of the Midland Counties Association.

During the First World War, one of the ringers, Private David Gamble, was killed in action in 1917, aged 19. Prior to enlisting in 1916, he had been an apprentice at John Smith and Sons clock works, near to St Alkmund's in Queen-street, Derby. Another ringer, Gunner Thomas Waterfield, was killed during the second world war, in 1944, aged 34.

In the 1950s a 20 foot section was removed from the top of the spire due to structural problems. Plans to replace this were not carried out, and in 1963, it was announced that the church was to be demolished to make way for a new inner ring road at Derby. The bells were rung for the last time on April 8th 1967. The church was demolished the following year, and the bells were put into store. A new church was built nearby in 1971 and consecrated the next year. Despite initial suggestions that the new church would have a tower suitable for the bells, this did not happen, and it just contains a single bell cast by John Taylor and Co in 1970.

Despite a rumour that the eight bells would go to a church in the USA, they were reused in the UK. Following retuning by the Whitechapel foundry, the treble bell was used as the second bell when the bells of Breadsall, near Derby, were augmented from six to eight in 1973. Five years later, the remaining seven bells were installed at St James', Whitehaven, Cumbria, along with three bells cast from the existing bell from that tower to form a ring of ten. Two more bells were added in the year 2000.

The following section contains a certain amount of repetition. The various histories of Derby produced in the 18th and 19th centuries quoted their predecessors, often verbatim, at some length.

The History of Derby

William Hutton, 1791

The steeple contains six musical bells.

Occurrences

1554. Sir John Marriott, Vicar of St Alkmund's, hanged himself in one of the bell-ropes. We are not told from what cause, but if Sir John was condemned to starve upon a benefice of eight pounds a year, no wonder he sought a reprieve in the belfry.

A Collection of Fragments Illustrative of the History and Antiquities of Derby

Robert Simpson, 1826

1554. Sir John Marriatt Vicar of St Alkmund's hung himself with one of the bell ropes.

In the year 1712, Mr. Woolley wrote the following account of Derby.

As to the local description of the place, it is divided into five parishes.

1st. ST ALKMUND'S, which contains the North or upper end of the town. The church is a good handsome building, of middle size, with six tuneable bells in it.

A New Historical and Descriptive View of Derbyshire

Rev D P Davies, 1811

The steeple contains six bells: and the building has a number of rude heads, and other sculptures designed for ornaments, in different parts.

In 1554, Sir John Marriott, vicar of St Alkmund, hung himself by one of the bell-ropes in the belfry.

The History of the County of Derby - Volume 2

Stephen Glover, 1829

The steeple contains six musical bells.

Extracts from the Parish Register

1624 Mense Augusti Campanarium Sanct Alkmundi denuo reconditum est, et Campana quarta refusta. Henrico Coke ministro, Thoma Burne et Samuele Storer oeconomicis, Roberto Caddow et Josepho Reeve operariis, et finitum est opus integrum decimo quarto die ejusdem menais Augusti 1624, quo die Rex Jacobu una cum Carolo Principe, et villam Derbeyam in progressu intraverant et duas noctes in eadem villa, ... ... ... tantes.

In August, the belfrey of St Alkmund was finally repaired, and a fourth bell was cast. Henry Coke being minister, Thomas Burney and Samuel Storer, churchwardens, Robert Caddow and Joseph Reeve the workmen, and the whole work was completed on the 14th day of August, 1624. On which day, king James, together with prince Charles, entered the town of Derby in their progress, and remained in this town two nights.

1627. This yeare the bellframe was againe new made and finished the 25th of Ffebruary, by George Wragg, the workman. Thomas Waite and Thomas Sale being churchwardens.

Notes on the Churches of Derbyshire

J Charles Cox, 1875

In 1841 it was most unfortunately resolved to pull down the venerable old church, and to build a new one on the site. At first it was intended to retain at all events the lower part of the old tower, but it was found to be too insecure to support new work.

On February 20th of that year [1844] the Committee resolved that the west face of the tower of the new church should project 10 ft 6 in beyond the exterior projection of the buttresses of the old tower, and that the increased length be appropriated for a chancel. By this lengthening of the church the principal view of the beautiful tower of S Mary's the Roman Catholic church erected a few years before, and one of the most successful efforts of Pugin was effectually concealed; and it is creditable to the good sense and taste of Derby that this unnecessary obstruction of a real work of art, though unfortunately carried out, met with much opposition.*

* The present Lord Belper, then member for Derby, was a warm opponent of this change of plan which was rightly or wrongly regarded as a piece of Protestant spite and withdrew his subscription of £200, dividing it between the Derby Infirmary and the Derby British Schools.

We have been able to get together various particulars relative to the old building from different sources. It consisted of a nave, with side aisles and south porch; a chancel; and a tower at the west end, not disengaged from the building, but open to the aisles and nave by three pointed arches.

The nave, aisles, and tower had all embattled parapets. The tower had double belfry windows on each side.

[Quoting from an account by Sir Stephen Glynn, circa 1830]

"This church is principally Rectilinear, and consists of a west tower, a nave with side aisles, and a chancel. The tower is embattled, with double belfry windows, and stands engaged with the aisles ; it has also on each side a squareheaded window ranging with those of the clerestory. The nave, aisles, and south porch are all embattled, and the buttresses on the north side surmounted by pinnacles.

The tower opens to the nave and to the side aisles by three good pointed arches with mouldings carried all down.

The present tower contains a ring of eight bells, thus lettered :

I. and II. " C. & G. Mears, founders, London, 1846. This bell was added by voluntary subscription on the rebuilding of the Parish Church A.D. 1846. The following were the building Committee, The Rev Edward Henry Abney B.A. Vicar, Henry Cox, John Harrison, John Whitehurst, James Thomason, John Johnson, John Gamble, William Smith ; George Bridgart, William Stevenson, Churchwardens."

III. "C. & G. Mears, founders, London. The old Parish Church was taken down A.D. 1844, and rebuilt by voluntary subscription A.D. 1846. The Rev Edw Henry Abney B.A. Vicar, John Gamble, Joseph Walker, Churchwardens."

IV. " God save oure Church," and the bell-mark of Henry Oldfield.

V. "Eccho dulcis sonans jam voco jarnque veni 1588. Recast 1846 by C. & G. Mears, London."

VI. " Ut tuba sic resono ad templa venite pii 1586," and the bell-mark of Henry Oidfield.

VII. "All glori be to God on high, 1624."

VIII. "J. Taylor & Co., Bell founders, Loughborough, 1872. Recast 1872. Edward Henry Abney B.A. Vicar, Walter G. Copestake, Frank Campion, Churchwardens."

The inscription on the last bell used to be "Triuitate sacra fiat hec campana beata."

The registers of S. Alkmund's begin in 1538

The following are some of the more interesting excerpts

1624. Mense Augusti Campanarium J Sanct' Alkmundi denuo reconditum est, et Campana quarta refusta. Henrico Coke ministro, Thoma Burne et Samuel Storer CEconomis, Roberto Caddow et Josepho Reeve operariis et fiuitum est opus integrum decimo quarto die ejusdem meusis Augusti 1624, quo die Rex Jacobus una cum Carolo Principe villam Derbeyam in progressu iutraverunt et duos noctes in eadem villa . . . tantes.

[For a translation, see the earlier extract from 'The History of the County of Derby - Volume 2' by Stephen Glover]

Derby Churches Old and New

Charles J Payne, 1893.

The later church consisted of a nave, 63ft 7in long and 16ft wide; aisles of the same length; chancel, 34ft 3in by 12ft 4in; tower 69ft high; and a south porch. The parapets of nave, aisles, tower and porch were all embattled. The three storeyed tower was heavily buttressed. In the lowest stage was a pointed and profusely moulded door, and some blocked-up windows; the second contained the clock, and the belfry was lighted with double windows on each side.

[Referring to the church after rebuilding in 1846]

The little old building, more insignificant as to size than either S. Peter's or S. Werburgh's is now, has been replaced by a noble one of stone, consisting of nave, aisles, chancel, south porch, south transept, tower, and a beautifully proportioned spire.

The lofty tower is ornamented with crocketed pinnacles, and light flying buttresses assist to support the octagonal spire, which is divided into four stages, each having a quartette of spire lights on the alternate facings. A weather-cock crowns all.

The parapets of tower, nave and chancel are pierced by trefoiled openwork.

"At the reformation," says a writer in a former publication entitled the Derbyshire Churchman, "the state robbed S Alkmund's of a very large sum, and the poor parson, after waiting anxiously for redress, was put off with a miserable restitution of £14, and told to keep 'hospitality' upon it." The vicar was then one Sir John Marriott, who, worn by long poverty, and his endeavours to exist upon nothing, miserably put an end to his existence by hanging himself upon the rope of the smallest bell. The rope broke by the weight of his body. Poor state paid parson! This was in 1554, when the vicarial stipend was only £8 per annum. In referring to this event, Hutton caustically observes: "We are not told the cause of it, but if Sir John was compelled to starve upon a benefice of £8 per year, no wonder he sought a reprieve in the belfry."

The tower contains a good peal of eight bells. The oldest dates from only thirty-two years after Sir John Marriotts suicide, viz 1586. Another, made in 1588, was recast forty-five years ago, and bears the inscription "Eccho dulcis sonans jam voco jamque veni." Two others are dated 1586 and 1624 respectively.

Up to about 1845, morning services were read once a week in four of the Derby churches, at 11 o'clock; the bells chiming (not merely tolling) for service on Sundays. The days were: Tuesdays at S. Peter's, Wednesdays at All Saints', Thursdays at S. Alkmund's, and Saturdays at S. Werburgh's. At S Peter's and S Werburgh's this custom survived until daily morning prayer was re-established; and at S Alkmund's and All Saints' the bells chimed regularly for the service for some years after the clergy ceased to attend!

Sketches of Old Derby and Neighbourhood

George F Gadd, 1895

The present spire of St Alkmund is, without doubt, very fine; but to some of the older inhabitants of Derby it remains a memorial of an unfortunate lack of foresight. Had this noble spire been picturesquely placed where the present porch is, and had the corporation been able to purchase a slice of the churchyard, we might now have had Queen Street extended to Bridge Gate, with Pugin's masterpiece boldly and beautifully crowning the end. Queen Street would then have been the finest street in Derby.

English Bells and Bell Lore

Thomas North, 1888

In Derby where there used to be a series of services on successive week days, at each church in the town, the ringing for the S. Alkmund service, on Thursday mornings, was kept up till lately , though no one ever thought of going to church at the time.

Church Bells of England

H B Walters, 1912

At Derby formerly there was ringing every day for week-day services, and this ringing was kept up on Thursdays at St Alkmund's church, although there was no service.

[Referencing 'English Bells and Bell Lore' by Thomas North]

The History and Art of Change Ringing

Ernest Morris, 1931

[In a section referring to the cracking of bells due to clocking]

Many other instances could be quoted, notably the tenors at Bradford-on-Avon, Trowbridge, Wilts, All Saints', Oxford, St Alkmund's, Derby, and two bells at Canterbury. Doubtless the majority of these bells - almost all tenors - have been cracked by sextons tolling for funerals.

[In a section referring to the donation of books by C H Hattersley to form a ringing library at Sheffield Cathedral]

A committee was formed, which carried out this scheme, and to-day, with the addition of other books etc, contributed by ringers and friends, this memorial library is one of the finest of its kind in the country. This plan might well be adopted by other towers (as, indeed, it is at St Martin's, Birmingham, St Alkmund's, Derby, and elsewhere), not only to perpetuate the memory of an enthusiastic associate, but to retain valuable books, MSS, and other works that may be lost to the exercise for ever, as other similar works have been in the past.

Bell News vol9 p331 04/10/1886

In 1554 Sir John Marriott, vicar of St Alkmund's, Derby, hanged himself in the belfry of that church by means of a bell-rope. ‶We are not told from what cause,″ says Hutton, ‶but if Sir John was condemned to starve upon a benefice of eight pounds a year, no wonder he sought a reprieve in the belfry.

Derby Mercury 20/04/1770

April 19th. Yesterday being the 18th Instant, it was observed here as a Day of Rejoicing, for the Expiration of the Term of John Wilkes Esq's Imprisonment; The Morning (which was extremely fine) was saluted by a Peal of Bells in the Parish Church of St Alkmund.

Derby Mercury 29/05/1806

On Wednesday last, the Society of Change Ringers belonging to this place, rang the peal of triple Bob at St Alkmund's church, which peal has never before been perform'd in this town

Derby Mercury 15/05/1833

DERBY BELL-RINGING

SIR - On Thursday evening the change-ringers of Derby rang a merry peal on the bells of St. Alkmund, which have lately undergone a thorough repair. The bells, newly hung, rang unusually easily, in consequence of some peculiar alteration in the tongues, by which the sounds that formerly were harsh are made soft. Mr. Thomas Dawson has performed this work greatly to the satisfaction of all who have any judgment in music or in bells. He also repaired and altered the ten bells at All Saints last year in the same way; they are considered a very great improvement by the inhabitants, and are much admired by strangers or travellers. If the public were acquainted with the practicability of improving either good or bad peals, they would not let them remain as they are, which is the reason I trouble you with this information.

May 14th, 1833.
A CHANGE-RINGER

Derby Mercury 06/11/1844

DEATHS

On Thursday last, in this town, Mr Caleb Cockayne, aged 75. He was more than sixty years a ringer at St Alkmund's church.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 22/05/1846

ST ALKMUNDS NEW CHURCH

The top stone of the spire was raised and the ball and weathercock fixed on Wednesday week, by the architect, Mr Stevens, assisted by Mr William Haslam, (white smith) and the masons, amidst the cheers of a large concourse of spectators. A contribution was made by the gentlemen present, to regale the workmen; and a merry peal was wrong upon the new bells with the masons mallets, which had a very peculiar and pleasing effect, and was duly responded to by the bells of All Saints. The Spire, with vane, &c, is 214 feet high, being 28 feet higher than All Saints. A bar of iron, 1 and 3 quarters in in diameter copper passes through the upper part of the Spire, about 30-ft long, a collar or flange resting on the top stone and the lower end of the bar being firmly secured to a piece of timber. the cock turns on a hardened centre at the top of this bar which is diminished for the purpose, and passes through the body of the bird in a copper socket, with a hardened Steel termination. the bar is intended to be continued as an electric conductor.

[It is likely that the whitesmith referred to was the father of Sir Alfred Seale Haslam, donor of one of the bells at St Peter's]

Nottingham Review and General Advertiser for the Midland Counties 03/07/1846

On Wednesday, a person named Samuel Potter, aged 26, employed in the rebuilding of St Alkmund's church, Derby, died under the following circumstances. On his return from dinner he raised himself up by means of the pulley rope some distance from the ground, and then placed his feet on the pulley itself and descended. When near the ground, he fell down in a fit of apoplexy and expired. An inquest was held before Mr B T Balguy, and a verdict to that effect recorded.

Derby Mercury 16/09/1846

OPENING OF THE PARISH CHURCH OF ST ALKMUND, DERBY

This beautiful and capacious edifice was opened for Divine service yesterday (Tuesday, September 15th, 1846), agreeably to public announcement.

The tower at the west end is twenty-five feet square at the base, and ninety-two feet high to the commencement of the spire. One of the principal entrances to the church is obtained through a bold moulded doorway on the west side, and a stone belfry staircase is carried up throughout in the SW angle. There is a four light window over the west doorway, and on the next stage, two windows for the bell-ringing room to the north and south. The upper stage - a belfry, is perforated on all sides by two double light windows; double rectangular buttresses form the angles with gablets at the weatherings, and at the upper stage there are niches and canopies on each face of the buttresses, terminated by large octangular crocketted pinnacles. The parapet is perforated. The spire rises to the height of 112 feet above the flat of the tower.; the angles have moulded ribs; it is divided into three distinct bays by ornamental raised bands, and the upper part is diapered by a scale ornament, each division of the spire has four spire lights, the lowest are connected with the pinnacles by flying buttresses.

Derby Mercury 23/09/1846

[In a letter claiming to be from the Sexton of St Peter's, although he later denied that he was the author]

Of what use is the fifth of November if we are not to have squibs and crackers? At Madrid they have bull fights; at Seville, auto da feés; but of what use are those without bell ringing? For the last week or two we have been bothered to death with the ringing of St Alkmund's new bells. The letter in the Mercury, last week says, the parish is bound for the ringing of one bell; now from time immemorial it has been customary to kiss the Pope's toe on Easter Sunday; then there is matins and vespers; and at Mr Sing's schools they have evening lectures; the bells rung at seven, eight, and one o'clock, are to let the servants know when to bring up the breakfast and dinner.

Derbyshire Courier 26/09/1846

ST ALKMUND'S CHURCH

The bells were cast by Mr Mears, of London. Mr Haslam, the contractor for the wrought iron door bands, presented the committee with those for the door at the west entrance. The exertions of Mr J Gamble, jun, the churchwarden, are beyond all praise. We are informed that to his persevering activity the parish is indebted for the new bells and stained windows.

Bell's Life in London and Sporting Chronicle 13/12/1846

CHANGE RINGING

On Monday the change ringers of St Alkmund's Church, Derby, ascended the tower of that recently rebuilt noble edifice, and rang upon the bells a true and complete peal of grandsire triples, consisting of 5,040 changes, which were brought round in a masterly style in three hours and 15 minutes by the following persons, viz, E Elliot treble, W Brocklesby second, J Howe third, T Stubbs fourth, J Sill fifth, R Bradley sixth, T How seventh, S Marshall tenor. The peal was conducted by Mr William Brocklesby, and is the first peal performed on the bells since their augmentation to a peal of eight, which was caused by the indefatigable exertions of the church building committee, and executed by Messrs C and G Mears of London. They combine sweetness and correctness of tone, and now form a lively and merry peal of eight.

Derbyshire Courier 26/12/1846

[In an account of the opening of the new bells at Ticknall, Derbyshire]

On Monday, the 14th inst, a grand peal was rung by the ringers of St Alkmund's, Derby, followed on Tuesday morning, by the ringers of Stoney Stanton, Leicestershire.

Derby Mercury 22/08/1860

COUNTY COURT, DERBY

Tuesday, August 14.

[Before J T Cantrell, Esq, Judge]

SMITH V MARSHALL

This was a claim for 8s for splicing the bell ropes of St Alkmund's Church. From the plaintiff's statement it appeared that the defendant, who is the sexton, gave the order for the repairs in question on Christmas eve three years ago. He took the plaintiff to the belfry and pointed out to him the ropes which required splicing, and said he wanted them doing immediately, that the bells might be rung. The defendant denied his liability to pay for the repairs, and said he had no power to order repairs. He also questioned whether the repairs had been done; if they had he had no recollection of it, and it was usual for the ringers to splice the ropes whenever they required splicing. If there had been any claim it should have been made on the churchwardens and they would have discharged it. The charge now made appeared very extravagant. He further made a long statement about new ropes, which His HONOUR considered had nothing to do with the present question.

His HONOUR, after hearing the evidence, said he was of the opinion that the defendant had given orders for the ropes to be spliced. It was true that the defendant had exceeded his authority by doing so, and for that he was responsible to the churchwardens, but that did not free him from liability to pay for the repairs done, and as he (His Honour) could not say that the charge was excessive, the plaintiff was entitled to judgement for the amount claimed.

Judgement accordingly.

Derby Mercury 26/06/1867

REPTON

On Sunday week, the bell ringers of St Alkmund's society rang various peals in the parish church, consisting of 1867 changes (the present year) which occupied the space of one hour and six minutes. The ringers took their places as follows: Treble, Mr G Neal; second, Mr A Taberer; third, Mr W Busher; fourth, Mr J Howe, jun; fifth, Mr J Ridgeway; sixth, Mr S Smedley. The ringing was ably conducted by Mr John Howe, jun.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 27/09/1867

ST ALKMUND'S CHANGE RINGERS

On the evening of Thursday, the 19th instant, the St Alkmund's society of change ringers assembled to pay a tribute of respect to the memory of the late Mr James Marshall, beadle of All Saints' Church for a period of 41 years. They rang a mourning peal of changes or upwards of two hours in a very masterly style, as a token of the esteem in which the deceased was held by the members of the society. A similar mark of respect was also shown by a mourning peal being rung on the bells of All Saints.

Church Bells vol 2 p487 07/09/1872

Fatal Effect of Clocking

The fine tenor bell of St Alkmund's, Derby, has just been cracked by the destructive system of 'clappering,' by which a rope is tied to the clapper of the bell for the purpose of tolling it. More church bells are destroyed in this manner than in any other. The vicars and churchwardens of the diocese would do well to take warning by the misfortune of St. Alkmund's. - Derbyshire Churchman of August, 1872.

Derby Daily Telegraph 25/01/1882

BELL RINGING AT ST ALKMUND'S

On Monday eight members of the Derby Society of Change Ringers ascended the tower of St Alkmund's and rang muffled peals, at intervals, in commemoration of the anniversary of the decease of the late Mr Wm Rowbottom, bookseller, Iron-gate, who was for some years a member of the society, and was greatly respected by his fellow-ringers. The repertoire comprised grandsire triples, bob minors, &c.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 19/05/1882

BELL RINGING

On Thursday evening last the bells of all the churches in Derby rang muffled peals as a token of respect to the late Lord F Cavendish

Bell News 19/07/1884

[From the first instalment of a record of a trip to the Midlands by W D Brown aka OPQ, starting on 21st June 1884]

OUT OF TOWN

Alighting from the carriage we are met by that veteran of Derby, Mr John Howe, whose smiling countenance denotes he has something in store for one of us four travellers from London; but I must now let my readers into the secret who my fellow-travellers were. They consisted of my wife, son, and sister. The usual salutations having been brought stand, the meaning of the facial contortion of our Derby friend was made manifest by being asked to stand in a peal at once, at the church of St Alkmund, a ring of eight, tenor 17 cwt. It was very kind of course for my country friends to arrange so nicely for a peal of Grandsire Triples immediately upon my arrival, and also very gratifying, especially as I had been out of bed since 2.45 that morning, and had had very little refreshment since breakfast; still we put up with it, and having seen my aforesaid companions in the right road to their very comfortable apartments, we (John Howe and myself), wended our way to the trysting place, there we found all present. We at once ascended the tower, run the bells (not all in tune) round, adjusted our ropes to the proper length - except the fourth man, whose sallie was too high. Up goes our friend to lower the rope, but he found it impracticable owing to the presence of a knot just inside the eye of the wheel, so invention being necessity’s mother, our conductor, Mr H C Woodward, like a "terrible functionary," was perched upon a box, from which he called the peal in three hours eighteen minutes: and very glad I was when "that's all" was sounded, considering that I had next to nothing for a sallie, and immediately in my rear the presence of the pest of many steeples, a foul urinal, which ever and anon wafted its not very spicy breezes into contact with my olfactory nerves. Some kind friend was thoughtful enough to bring a small tin of disinfectant, but this had little effect upon the old sore, and I should advise the authorities there to rid themselves of this not very great embellishment to a ringing-chamber. We descended into fresher air, and after exchanging greetings and such like in a neighbouring hostelrie, parted for the night, having made up a party of four to walk to Duffield the following morning.

Derbyshire Daily Telegraph 23/12/1884

On Saturday, June 21st, a full peal of Grandsire triples, consisting of 5,040 changes, was rung on St Alkmund's bells, Derby, and the event has been chronicled on a tablet which was erected in the belfry on Saturday last. To commemorate this the following members of the Midland Counties Association of Change Ringers on Sunday, the 21st inst, rang on the same bells before the Divine service a quarter peal of Grandsire triples (1,260 changes) in 48 minutes: J Ridgway, treble; S Maskery, 2nd; J H Frost, 3rd; J Howe, 4th; A B Ward (conductor), 5th; A C Woodward, 6th; J Newbold, 7th; J Seal, tenor. It is somewhat remarkable that the full peal should have been rung on the longest, and the quarter peal on the shortest day of the year.

Derby Daily Telegraph 07/12/1931

DERBY BELL-RINGERS' MEMORIES
Veteran Who ‶Rang In″ Two Kings

Mr Samuel Maskrey, aged 72, of Catherine-street, Derby, is an honorary life member of the Midland Counties Association, and was one of the original members.

Mr Maskrey, who claims to be the oldest bell-ringer in Derby, told a ‶Derby Telegraph″ representative that he started ringing at the age of 18 at St Alkmund's, where he was one of the company for eleven years. He then went to St Andrew's, and has been ringing there for 42 years.

He helped to ring in many important events of the last century, and this, including the Coronations of King Edward VII, and King George V.

Ringing World 21/06/1940 p294

On June 23rd, 1882, the first peal by the Derby and District Association (Grandsire Triples) was rung at St Alkmund's, Derby. Later on the association became the Midland Counties Association.

Ringing World 26/06/1942 p294

Sixty years ago last Tuesday Holt's Ten-Part peal of Grandsire Triples was rung at St Alkmund's, Derby. It was the first, peal by the Midland Counties Association, which had been founded on the previous Easter Monday under the title of the Derby and District Association.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 20/05/1892

On Sunday, out of respect to the memory of Canon Abney, the bells of St Alkmund's which beautiful church he had been instrumental in raising, were muffled.

Bell News vol 15 p639 20/03/1897

MR JOHN RIDGWAY

We regret to announce the death of the above ringer, who for about thirty years, had been steeple-keeper and ringer at St Alkmund's church, Derby. He died on Sunday, March 7th, and was interred on Thursday, March 11th, at the age of 67 years. After the funeral a quarter-peal of Grandsire Triples was rung in 54 mins, with the bells deeply muffled, as a last token of respect. T Anthony, 1 ; A E Thompson (conductor), 2; J Howe, 3; F Bradley, 4; L S Lomas, 5; J W Thompson, 6; J Newbold, 7; G Slack, 8. Composed by T Collinson, of Birmingham. The deceased joined the Midland Counties Association in 1884, and had rung the treble in many good peals, of which however he had kept no record.

Bell News vol 17 p335 17/12/1898

HARRY CHARLES WOODWARD

We regret to announce the death of the above named ringer, of Derby, at his residence, on November 28th, aged forty years. He was interred in the new cemetery, Nottingham Road, Derby, on Thursday, December 1st. The deceased was one of the founders of the Midland Counties Association, and conducted its first peal on June 23rd, 1882, at St. Alkmund's, Derby. He had rung seventy-five Association peals, many of which be conducted. Derby has lost one of its most prominent ringers, and one who has done much for the advancement of the Art in his locality, and as a last tribute of respect and esteem the following band rang on Tuesday evening, December 6th, a quarter-peal of Grandsire Triples, with the bells half-muffled, in 50 mins, at St Alkmund's church, this being the first place he rang in Derby. T Anthony, 1; J W Thompson, 2; L Lomas, 3; C Draper, 4; A E Thompson (conductor), 5; S Embrey, 6; J Newbold, 7; S Smedley, 8.

Bell News vol 21 p349 01/11/1902

OUR CHURCH BELLS
THEIR CONDITION AND SURROUNDINGS

Being the Report of the Committee appointed by the Central Council to investigate the state of rings of 8, 10, and 12 bells in England, and to collect information calculated to promote the advance of change-ringing.

DERBY. St Alkmund. Midland Counties Association. Eight bells. Treble and 2nd by Mears, 1846; 3rd by the same, 1844; 4th no date stated; 5th, 1588; 6th, 1586; 7th, 1624; no founder of these four mentioned. Tenor 17 cwt, diameter 3ft 10in, by Taylor, 1872, Timber frame. Bells go well. Ropes fair. Methods: Grandsire, Stedman, and Plain Bob. Sunday ringing: 10.15 to 10.40, and 6 to 6.25. Practice: Friday, 7.30.

Bell News vol 27 p122 16/05/1908

ST. ALKMUND'S, DERBY
PEAL RE-DEDICATION BY THE BISHOP OF DERBY

On Thursday, April 23rd, these bells were re-dedicated by the Bishop of Derby (Dr Were), in the presence of a considerable congregation. The dedication took place immediately before the benediction of the bells being committed to the joint custody of the Vicar and wardens, ‶to be used by their consent, subject to the ultimate control of the Bishop of the diocese.″

Before the service, Mr Bernard Fowles, LRAM, organist and choirmaster, gave a recital, and during the service the choir gave a finished rendering of Purcell's lovely ‶Bell Anthem.″ The lesson was read by the Vicar (Rev A E Hunt), and as soon as the bells had been dedicated, a touch of Stedman Triples was rung by a company of St Andrew's, Derby, with G Robinson at the tenor, conducted by A H Ward.

Several of the bells of St Alkmund's date back for very many years. One was cast in the year of the Armada, and was possibly rung to celebrate its destruction. Five of the eight bells which form the peal have been re-cast; the 5th, which was also recast in 1846, is dated 1538, but the oldest bell is the 6th, referred to above, dated 1586. The latter together with the 7th, dated 1624, and the tenor hung in 1872, when Canon Abney was Vicar, and Dr W C Copestake and Mr Frank Campion were wardens, have been very successfully retuned by Messrs Taylor. The whole peal has been re-mounted on a new iron frame, and rehung in such a way so that there should be no danger to the church's very beautiful spire, and to bring from them the best notes and most harmonious sounds.

The weight of the tenor bell is 18 cwt, and the total cost will be about £350. The offertory amounted to £13, still leaving £50 to be raised, which is hoped by the congregation to be cleared this summer. The churchwardens (Messrs Pridgeon and Colburn) are to be congratulated, for they have spared no time or labour to carry this scheme to a successful issue, and is a fitting termination of their office.

On Sunday morning, April 26th, the Vicar preached a sermon in which he mentioned the message of the bells, and said it was not merely ‶come to church″ as if religion consisted in coming to church, but it was that and far more, that it reminded us of the parable of the sower, if we have received a blessing we are to share it with others; that the seed sown in an honest and good heart may yield an abundant harvest. Thus the message of the bells was a message of service. The Vicar laid stress that the congregation will henceforth realise that the ringers are volunteer workers of equal standing with the other workers of the church. The belfry, as well as the bells, has been improved, and has occasioned a new band of ringers under the captaincy of Mr G Robinson, who is a thorough enthusiast, and hopes in the near future to possess a band of change-ringers at this church. The Vicar has sent a letter to Mr Ward offering his grateful thanks to the St Andrew's ringers for the very kind help they have given to St Alkmund's up to the present time, and for the generous contribution they have made to the fund.

At the close of the evening service a quarter-peal of Grandsire Triples in 46 mins. J Barker, A H Ward conductor, W Wallace, H Inckle, S Maskery, E Willis, J Pagett, G Robinson.

Bell News vol 27 p125 16/05/1908

The Midland Counties Association Derby District

A special district meeting will be held at Derby on Saturday, May 23rd. The bells at St Andrew's, and also St Alkmund's (recently rehung), will be available from 2.30pm. A tea might be arranged if a sufficient number notify me not later than the 20th inst of their intention of being present. All visitors cordially welcomed

A H WARD, Local Hon Sec, 1 Lyndhurst Terrace, Moore Street, Derby

Bell News vol 27 p182 13/06/1908

THE MIDLAND COUNTIES ASSOCIATION

A most successful district meeting of the Derby branch of the above Association was held at Derby on Saturday, May 23rd, for the purpose of establishing a system of monthly meetings.

A tea was arranged in St. Peter's parish room, kindly lent for the occasion by the Vicar and churchwardens. The various towers in the district were well represented, forty-six members and friends being present. The chair was taken by the Rev A E Hunt (Vicar of St Alkmund's), supported by the Rev Marsden and R B Chambers, esq, JP, who has been a true and loyal friend to ringers, he being mainly instrumental in carrying to a successful issue the scheme for the new ring of eight bells at St Peter's church a few years ago, besides generously contributing to the funds for the restoration of St. Alkmund's, which renovation has recently been carried out by the well known Loughborough firm.

The Rev A E Hunt, in welcoming the visitors to Derby, said it gave him great pleasure to come among them, and that he was personally very grateful to the Association for the assistance he had received in forming a band of ringers at his own church. Continuing his remarks he said he could not help by being struck by the brotherhood which existed amongst ringers, and he trusted this spirit of sympathy would continue, as its influence would always tend to encourage and spread the Art of ringing. Ringers should be looked upon as real church workers, doing their part towards the services of the Church on an equal footing with the organist and the choir.

A vote of thanks to the clergy and churchwardens for granting the use of the bells and room was carried unanimously on the proposition of Mr W Fox (Wirksworth), seconded by Mr C Draper (Derby), the compliment being suitably responded to by the Rev A E Hunt and Alderman R B Chambers, Esq, JP.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 21/08/1908

PRESENTATION TO A DERBY BELL RINGER

On Saturday afternoon, at St Alkmund's Church, eight members of the Midland Counties Association of Change Ringers rang a complete peal of grandsire triples (5,040 changes) in three hours and eight minutes, the performers being as follows: J Newbold (treble), A H Ward 2nd, C Draper 3rd, H Inckle 4th, C E Hart 5th, J E Barker 6th, S Maskrey 7th, G H Robinson (tenor). The peal is the composition of J J Parker, Farnham Royal, Bucks. It is in twelve equal divisions, and was conducted by A H Ward. It was rung as a birthday compliment to Mr J Newbold, who attained his 70th year on the 13th inst. At the conclusion of the peal, Mr S Maskrey, on behalf of the band, presented him with a silver-mounted pipe, in case, and a tobacco pouch. The case bore the following inscription: ‶Presented to Mr John Newbold, on his 70th birthday, by the ringers of St Andrew's and St Alkmund's churches.″ Mr Maskrey, in wishing the recipient ‶many happy returns,″ remarked how pleased they all were to take part in a peal on such an auspicious occasion, heartily congratulating the veteran on being able to manipulate his bell for over three hours, without any interval, at such an advanced age, and trusting he might long be spared to ring with them on future occasions.

Bell News vol 27 p292 22/08/1908

THE PEAL AT ST. ALKMUND'S, DERBY

This peal, reported on another page, was rung as a birthday compliment to our old comrade, Mr John Newbold, the ringer of the treble, who attained his seventieth birthday on the 13th instant. At the conclusion of the peal Mr S Maskrey, on behalf of the ringers, presented him with a silver-mounted pipe in case, and a tobacco pouch. The case bore the following inscription: ‶Presented to Mr John Newbold by the ringers of St Andrew's and St Alkmund's churches.″ Mr Maskrey, in wishing the recipient many happy returns, said how pleased we all were to take part in a peal on such an auspicious occasion. He heartily congratulated him on being able to manipulate his bell for upwards of three hours without an interval, at such an advanced age, and trusted that he might long be spared to take an active part in many more peals.

[Refers to peal at St Alkmund's on 15/08/1908]

Bell News vol 29 p665 25/02/1911

The Midland Counties Association

The unveiling of a peal board by the Vicar, recording a peal of Double Norwich rung at St Alkmund's church, Derby, will take place on Saturday, March 4th, at 3 o'clock. The bells will be at the disposal of the ringers after the ceremony, when it is hoped a good muster will be present, ladies especially invited, and a welcome to any ringers outside this Association.

J Pagett.
107 Abbey Street, Derby.

Derby Daily Telegraph 10/08/1911

ST ALKMUND'S CHOIR AND BELL RINGERS

The annual excursion of the choir and bellringers of St Alkmund's, Derby, was taken to Chester via Liverpool. Perfect weather favoured the proceedings throughout. The party, which consisted of the vicar, the Rev J Gordon Hayes, curate, Mr Bernard Fowles, LRAM, organist and choirmaster, together with nearly all the choir and all the ringers left Derby Midland Station at 7am in a saloon, in which a splendid breakfast was served by Mr Ramsden, of St Peter's-street. Arriving at Liverpool about 10am a move was made for the landing stage, the ferry being taken to Rock Ferry, where a conveyance was in readiness for the drive to Chester, which after a beautiful drive of nearly three hours was reached about 1.30. Lunch was served at the Bars Hotel, a very nice meal being much appreciated. Lunch over, a few toasts were briefly proposed, and as briefly responded to, the day being too lovely to be broken into by speechmaking. A stroll round Chester, The Row, river, etc, brought the party to the Cathedral at 3.45, where owing to the exceptional kindness of Dr Bridge a short Organ recital was given by him on the great organ of the Cathedral. Expressions of high appreciation at the honour conferred on the party by Dr Bridge were heard on all sides. Evensong was attended by all, and then the conveyance was again boarded at 5.15 for Rock Ferry, and Liverpool was reached about 8pm when a splendid dinner was served at the Palatine Cafe, Lord-street.

After dinner one or two went to hear Dr Bridge's organ recital in St George's Hall, whilst others strolled round the city and some took several different ferries for a blow on the river, and had the satisfaction of seeing RMS Lusitania lit up moving down the river for her voyage to New York. All assembled at the Central Station and boarded the saloon which was attached to the 11.30pm express, arriving home about 2am, all tired but quite undivided in the opinion that no better excursion had been provided by the choir and ringers, that feeling being expressed on all sides to the vicar, wardens, congregation, and others who had by their generosity made such an excursion possible.

Derby Daily Telegraph 25/04/1913

ST ALKMUND'S DERBY

On Wednesday last the vicar and churchwardens of St Alkmund's, Derby, entertained the members of the choir and bellringers to supper at Ramsden's Restaurant.

Among those present were Messrs Colebourne, Potts, and Warman (ex-wardens), and the Rev Cundy. After an excellent repast, the remainder of the evening was spent in harmony interspersed by speeches. During the temporary absence of the vicar, Mr C Stuart Bowring occupied the chair, and gave the usual loyal toasts. The Vicar on arrival proposed the health of "The Choir and Bellringers," which was responded to by Messrs Isherwood, Plummer (organist), H Spencer (choir secretary), and G H Robinson. The toast of "The Clergy and Church Wardens" was ably given by Mr E A Tompkinson, and responded to by the Vicar, Mr Cundy, Mr C Stuart Bowring, and Mr T Walker. That of "The Visitors" proposed by Mr Cundy ,was replied to by the ex-wardens. Songs were given by Messrs Law, Ball, Nix, Colebourne, and Spencer, while selections on the handbells were given by the ringers, and a most enjoyable evening, for which the recipients heartily thanked their hosts, terminated with the national anthem.

Derbyshire Advertiser 02/05/1913

St Alkmund's Choir

The vicar and churchwardens of St Alkmund's Church gave a supper and entertainment to the choir and bellringers, at Ramsden's Restaurant, on April 23rd. Mr Stuart C Bowring occupied the chair, in the unavoidable absence of the vicar, who, however, was able to attend later, and there were present the Rev F M Cundy (curate) and Messrs Colebourne, Potts, and Worman (ex-wardens). An excellent repast was served, after which the chairman gave the loyal toasts. On the vicar's arrival, he proposed the health of the choir and bell-ringers, which was suitably responded to by Messrs F J Plummer (organist), H Spencer (choir secretary), and G H Robinson. ‶The Clergy and Churchwardens″ was proposed by Mr A E Tompkinson, and the vicar, the Rev F M Cundy, and Messrs C S Bowring and T Walker replied. The ex-wardens responded to ‶The Visitors,″ given by the Rev F M Cundy. Music on hand-bells, and songs by Messrs Lee, Bell, Nix, Colebourne, and Spencer were much enjoyed during the evening.

Derbyshire Advertiser 02/08/1913

St Alkmund's Church

On Saturday last, the adult members of the choir and the ringers had their annual outing. They were accompanied by the Rev A E Hunt (vicar) and the Rev Morton, and for a portion of the journey by Mr T Walker, churchwarden, Mr Stuart Bowring, his colleague, being unavoidably absent. The trip was to the Dukeries, via Mansfield, and the party was favoured with a beautiful day of sunshine, which made the drive through the Sherwood avenues most delightful. After passing through the Welbeck, Clumber, and Thoresby estates, Edwinstowe was reached, where an excellent dinner was provided by Host Naish. The church was visited, and whilst the choristers went to Major Oak, the ringers, by kind permission of the vicar of Edwinstowe, gave a peal on the bells, much to the delight of the many visitors and residents. The ringers also, by request, gave an exhibition of hand-bell ringing before leaving Edwinstowe. The return was made to the Midland Hotel, Mansfield, where tea was taken, and a most enjoyable day closed with an arrival back at Derby shortly before ten o'clock.

Derby Daily Telegraph 22/02/1918

DERBY BELLRINGER KILLED

Mr and Mrs Gamble, 27, Back Parker-street, have received official news that their only son, Pte David Gamble, aged 19, of the West Riding Regiment, who has been missing since May 3rd last, is now presumed killed on that date. Before joining the colours in October, 1916, he was an apprentice at Smith and Sons, clock works, Queen-street, Derby. He was also a bellringer at St Alkmund's Church, where he also attended the Sunday school.

Derby Daily Telegraph 29/01/1919

PEACE BELLS AT ST ALKMUND'S

On Saturday eight members of the Midland Counties Association of Change Ringers rang a complete peal of grandsire triples, 5,040 changes, on the fine peal of bells at St Alkmund's. This peal served a twofold purpose as the vicar (Rev A E Hunt) will shortly be leaving the parish after 17 years devoted service, and the ringers wished to show their appreciation in a pronounced manner. It was also rung as a thank-offering for the signing of the armistice and success of the Allied army.

This peal, Davies' five part, was rung in three hours by the following: George H Robinson, Jun, treble; Geo Freebrey, 2nd; William J Wileman, 3rd; Albert H Ward, 4th; John Elcock, 5th; Geo H Robinson, Sen, 6th; Bart Mitchell, 7th; Fred Lee, tenor; conductor Geo Freebrey. This performance is noteworthy as it is an uncommon occurrence to have a churchwarden change-ringer. Mr Geo Robinson is an ardent worker at St Alkmund's, and great credit is due to him or his interest both in the church and bellringers.

Ringing World 14/12/1919 p397

BOLSOVER RINGERS' OUTING

On a recent Saturday, the Bolsover ringers, their wives and friends, had their annual outing; all the ringers were able to go, this being the first time since the outbreak of the war in 1914, so a motor charabanc was chartered for the party of 29. The outward journey was through a part of the Peak at Derbyshire, via Chesterfield and Baslow, Chatsworth Park and Matlock, and Matlock Bath, to Wirksworth, the place selected for the first stop. The bells were raised in the church at Wirksworth. Mr Fox arrived, and gave one and all a hearty welcome. Norfolk and Superlative Surprise, Double Norwich and Bob Major were rung. Dinner was served at the Red Lion Inn. After dinner, some of the party indulged in the good old historical game of bowls. On arrival at Derby, St Alkmund's was visited, and we were met by our old friend, Charlie Draper. Bells raised, and Norfolk, Superlative Surprise, Double Norwich and Bob Major were rung. The party were joined by more of the Derby ringers; also Mr J Pagett, who took part in some of the ringing. Tea was provided for us at St James' Hotel. A vote of thanks was accorded to Mr C Draper for making arrangements at the Derby end; also to Mr Flint for the excellent arrangements for the ringing. The return journey was made via Ripley and Alfreton, arriving at Bolsover at 9pm. One and all voted this was one of the best outings they have had.

Ringing World 24/09/1920 p471

CREWE RINGERS VISIT DERBY

On Monday, Sept 6th the ringers attached to Christ Church, Crewe, had their annual outing, the place selected this year being Derby. The party left Crewe by the 7.15am train, and Derby was reached about 9.45. Through the kindness of Mr C J Bowen Cooke (who is the Master of the Chester Diocesan Guild and Chief Mechanical Engineer of the Railway Works at Crewe) arrangements had been made for a visit to the Midland Railway Works during the morning. This was thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated, and the party were afterwards entertained to dinner at the Midland Railway Institute, through the hospitality of Sir Henry Fowler, who is the Chief Mechanical Engineer at Derby.

During the afternoon a visit was paid to St Alkmund's Church tower, where the ringers were met by several of the local band, and a pleasant afternoon was spent. Here several short touches of Stedman Triples, Bob Major and Double Norwich were rung on the splendid peal of bells, and the Crewe ringers take this opportuunity of thanking those gentlemen who so kindly contributed towards making this visit so successful and enjoyable. The rest of the time before departure was spent in looking round the town, and Crewe was reached shortly after 9pm, after a most enjoyable day's outing.

Ringing World 20/05/1921 p293

DERBY PEAL BOARDS UNVEILED

At St Alkmund's Church, Derby, on Saturday, April 23rd, a special meeting of the Derby District was held for the purpose of unveiling two peal boards beautifully lettered in gold leaf, recording two peals of Grandsire Triples, one rung as a farewell peal to the Rev. A E Hunt on leaving to take up duty at Ockbrook, and to record his 17 years' service as Vicar of St Alkmund's Parish; the other as a welcome to the Rev J S Wilding, his successor. About 40 were present, including several ladies, the Rev A E Hunt (Ockbrook), the Rev J S Wilding (Vicar), the Rev W C Couch (curate), the Rev Wilkinson (Mansfield), Alderman Chambers, President MCA, Mr Plant (churchwarden) and Mr Potts (ex-warden), and ringers from Burton, Breadsall, Duffield, Ilkeston, Long Eaton and Derby.

The Rev A E Hunt remarked. how pleased he was to be present at such a gathering, and congratulated the ringers on their achievement. To be successful in ringing these peals it was not only necessary, he said, for the bells to be in perfect tune and work in harmony with each other, but that the ringers themselves should also work in harmony, realising at the same time that they were church workers and that their office was as important as any other branch of work in the church.

Alderman Chambers, in performing the unveiling ceremony, expressed his pleasure at being present on such an occasion, and spoke of the good work done by the late Vicar during his 17 years in the Parish. He wished him every success in his present sphere, and congratulated the ringers upon placing two such beautiful boards in the belfry. The Rev A E Hunt then dedicated the boards with a short prayer, after which the Vicar proposed a vote of thanks to the ladies and gentlemen for their attendance. He was supported by Mr Haywood, on behalf of the ringers, and the Vicar then closed the meeting with prayer.

Ringing was afterwards indulged in, touches of Grandsire, Duffield, Treble Bob, Cambridge and London being rung.

Derby Daily Telegraph 03/01/1925

ST ALKMUND'S BELLRINGERS

The members of the St Alkmund's Society of Change Ringers held their annual dinner at King's Cafe, St Peter's-street, on Wednesday, about 30 sitting down to an excellent repast. Amongst those present were Sir Henry Fowler, Rev J S Wilding (president), Rev A E Hunt (vicar of Holbrook), Messrs Holmes (churchwarden), Toy, Robinson, and Freebrey (captain).

Rev J E Wilding expressed his great satisfaction with the progress made by the ringers, and more so with the attendance on Sundays, as the full number of bells (eight) had been rung out on no less than 40 Sundays out of a possible 52. Out of eight attempted peals five had been successfully accomplished by members and visiting ringers.

Sir Henry Fowler, responding to the chairman's remarks, gave an interesting and humorous speech on the art of change ringing, and was supported by Rev A E Hunt, Messrs Toy, Holmes, and Robinson.

A splendid entertainment was provided by the following artists, whose services were fully appreciated by all present: Miss Dorothy Burgain (contralto), Mr T Burgain (ventriloquist), and Mr Teale (accompanist).

Derby Daily Telegraph 04/01/1926

ST ALKMUND'S BELL RINGERS

The annual dinner of the St Alkmund's Society of Change Ringers was held at King's Cafe, St Peter's-street, on New Year's Eve, and the good fare provided was greatly enjoyed by the ringers and their friends. The Rev A E Hunt, a former vicar of the church, presided, and was supported by Messrs C Lucas (churchwarden), G Holmes (ex-churchwarden), and J H Wilkinson (verger). The Rev A E Hunt in an interesting speech, referred to the history of St Alkmund's bells, one of which dates from the time of the Spanish Armada. This was a bell Derby people should be proud of. The rehanging of the bells in 1908 was also referred to.

Mr G Holmes, speaking on behalf of the church officers commented on the work Mr G Freebrey, captain and steeplekeeper, had done during the last few years. Great credit was due to him for his efforts in making a young band of ringers so successful.

The speechmaking was followed by a first-class entertainment, in which the following artists took part: Messrs Frank Wilson, Percy Jellyman, J Webster, S Burgain (ventriloquist), Mr and Mrs Chapman, and Miss Dorothy Birch. A most successful evening was brought to a close by the singing of ‶Auld lang syne".″

Derby Daily Telegraph 30/05/1931

DERBY CHURCH OUTINGS

St Alkmund's Church, Derby, choir and bellringers, will spend a day in London for their outing on July 11.

A party of 30 will include the Rev J R Wilding, vicar of St Alkmund's Church.

Derby Daily Telegraph 05/12/1931

Bell-ringers from four counties will celebrate their jubilee in Derby next year about Easter, when the Midland Counties Association will keep its fiftieth anniversary of its inauguration.

Honour of Age

The honour of age, however, belongs to one of St Alkmund's bells, dated 1586, which has a Latin inscription, the translation reading:

I ring out like a trumpet,
Come ye faithful to the temple.

Special Peals

Among the special peals rung within recent memory are three. Two were on St Alkmund's ring of bells in successive years, 1919 and 1920; the first to bid farewell to the Rev A E Hunt, the second to welcome the present vicar, the Rev J S Wilding.

Derby Daily Telegraph 07/12/1931

DERBY BELL-RINGERS' MEMORIES
Veteran Who ‶Rang In″ Two Kings

RECORD OF PEALS

Seven veterans are looking forward to the celebration in Derby next year of the Midland Counties Association of Change Ringers' golden jubilee, referred to in an article in last Saturday's ‶Derby Telegraph.″

Mr Samuel Maskrey, aged 72, of Catherine-street, Derby, is an honorary life member of the Midland Counties Association, and was one of the original members.

Mr Maskrey, who claims to be the oldest bell-ringer in Derby, told a ‶Derby Telegraph″ representative that he started ringing at the age of 18 at St Alkmund's, where he was one of the company for eleven years. He then went to St Andrew's, and has been ringing there for 42 years.

MORE VARIETY

He helped to ring in many important events of the last century, and this, including the Coronations of King Edward VII, and King George V.

Ringing World 27/10/1939 p659

MIDLAND COUNTIES' ASSOCIATION
AN INTERRUPTED MEETING AT DERBY

On Saturday, October 21st, the Derby District of the Midland Counties Association held a meeting at St Alkmund's, Derby. Members attended from Sawley, Ripley, Heanor and local ringers from St Andrew's, St Luke's and St Peter's. Stedman Doubles was the first method rung, followed by Cambridge Minor. Double Norwich unfortunately came to grief, but a course of Cambridge Surprise Minor was successfully brought round. Then followed a touch of Stedman Doubles, and when everything was going splendidly the clapper of the fifth bell came out. As the bell chamber was locked and the caretaker had gone into town, taking the key with him the meeting had to be abandoned so far as St Alkmund's was concerned. Fortunately ringing for a wedding was taking place at St Peter's, so a cyclist was quickly dispatched to tell them to carry on till the meeting was transferred, which was accomplished in about 20 minutes. Here Kent Treble Bob, Double Norwich, Stedman and Grandsire Triples were rung.

Votes of thanks to the Vicar of St Alkmund's and to the caretaker, and to those friends at St Peter's for so readily placing the bells at the disposal of the members, were proposed by Mr Jack Bailey and carried unanimously.

Derby Evening Telegraph 01/01/1947

Memorial To Bellringer

Shortly before they rang in the New Year last night, bellringers of St Alkmund's Church, Derby, met in the belfry to pay tribute to the memory of a former colleague who died in 1944 while serving in NW Europe.

Presented by his widow and bearing the inscription ‶A ringer of these bells from 1927 to 1944″, a photograph of Mr Thomas Robert Waterfield, 20, Market-place, Derby, was unveiled by the captain of the bellringers, Mr H T Waterfield.

The photograph was dedicated by the Rev H W R Bywater.

Ringing World 06/03/1953 p153

DERBYSHIRE ASSOCIATION
Success Attends First Annual Dinner

Derby is well endowed with good bells, and the three eight-bell towers were made available for ringing in the afternoon. These were St Peter's (tenor 11 cwt), St Luke's (30 cwt) and St Alkmund's (16 cwt). Thanks are due to the Incumbents of these churches and also particularly to Mr H Taylor and Mr P Whitaker, who worked very hard for several evenings in bad conditions to make St Alkmund's bells fit for ringing.

Ringing World 04/01/1963 p8

BELFRY GOSSIP

We hear that St Alkmund's Church, Derby, is to be demolished to make way for the new inner ring road at Derby. the fate of the eight bells is at present unknown.

Ringing World 22/02/1963 p122

ST ALKMUND'S, DERBY

Following the dramatic news in 'The Derby Evening Telegraph' that St Alkmund's Church, Derby, is to be demolished to make way for the new inner Ring Road, the Derbyshire Association have had discussions with the secretary of the Diocesan Advisory Committee to the Consistory Court. The facts are as follows:

(1) The Ministry of Transport have said that the inner Ring Road must be a certain width.

(2) In order that the Ring Road be this width the land on which St Alkmund's Church stands is needed. According to present plans, the Ring Road passes between St Alkmund's and a Catholic church on the opposite side of an existing road.

(3) St Alkmund's has formed a committee to discuss the position with the town clerk.

(4) The Ministry have powers of compulsory purchase.

The Derbyshire Association have received an assurance from the secretary of the DAC that in the event of the church being demolished and rebuilt on a different site, the eight bells would be installed in a rebuilt tower.

At present St Alkmund's bells are not rung for Sunday service, and an offer to ring the bells, made by the Cathedral band two years ago, was turned down by the Vicar.

The Derbyshire Association have expressed concern that the bells are not rung and, mindful of the possibility that the bells may be 'forgotten' on economic grounds in any rebuilding scheme, they have offered to man the bells for Sunday service at least once a month. To date this offer has not been accepted.

Ringing World 26/04/1963 p278

ST ALKMUND'S, DERBY

The Vicar of St Alkmund's, Derby, the church which will probably be demolished to make room for the new inner ring road, has now accepted the offer made by the Derbyshire Association for ringers in the Association to man St Alkmund's bells on a rota basis, at least once a month.

The initial plans are to ring the bells for Evensong, ie 5.30 to 6.30pm on the first Sunday of each month. The band from Etwall rang on April 7th, and bands from Heanor and Belper have volunteered for May and June. If sufficient bands volunteer it should be possible to increase the frequency of ringing to once a fortnight. Any band wishing to take its turn to man St Alkmund's bells on the above basis should contact G A Halls.

Ringing World 26/04/1963 p279

CANON R F WILKINSON

The funeral took place on April 10th at West Bridgford, in the presence of over 400 people, of Canon Reginald Felix Wilkinson, MA, who was Vicar of West Bridgford from 1940 until his retirement in 1961 and was appointed honorary canon of Norwell, in Southwell, in 1941. The Bishop (the Rt Rev F R Barry) gave the address at the service. Cremation was private at Wilford Hill. The Canon died the previous Wednesday.

Canon Wilkinson, who was in his 74th year, was born at East Drayton Vicarage, where his father was Vicar, and was educated at Leatherhead School and Jesus College, Oxford, where he read mathematics, and took a first in moderations and a second in finals. From Oxford he went to Cuddesdon, and was ordained a deacon at Southwell in 1914 and a priest in the following year.

He served his title at St Andrew's, Derby (the railway church), and later was curate for six years at St Peter's, Mansfield. He was appointed Rector of Ordsall in 1925, and remained there until his preferment to West Bridgford.

Canon Wilkinson was not only an authority on bells and bellringing, but a practical ringer of no mean ability. He was a member of the North Notts Association, the Clerical Guild, the Midland Counties Guild, and chairman of the Southwell Diocesan Guild from its formation in 1946 up to his death. He represented the North Notts Association on the Central Council from 1929 to 1937. Until his retirement, in 1961, he was chairman of the Diocesan Advisory Committee on Church fittings and furnishings.

Ringing World 1965 p296

ST ALKMUND'S, DERBY, TWO-DAY INQUIRY

There have been frequent references in our columns to the demolition of St Alkmund's Church, Derby, to make way for a ring road, and its erection on a new site acquired by the Corporation, nearer the centre of the parish in Kedleston Road. The Parochial Church Council have lodged an appeal against compulsory orders and demolition and the hearing of their case was recently the subject of a two day inquiry by the Ministries of Housing and Local Government and Transport. It was then stated that the Bishop, the Archdeacon of Derby, the Vicar of the parish and the diocesan officials were in favour of demolition.

An independent objector, Mr W T West, said that he thought it was shocking and horrible that the guardians of the oldest established church in the town should not only fail to oppose its demolition but advocate it. A petition, hearing about 750 names, deploring the decision to pull down the church with its fine ring of bells and organ, was presented by Mr Neville Grimshaw, a sidesman and PCC member, who said that Mr John Betjeman, in a letter to him, had described St Alkmund's as ‶a handsome church.″ Mr Grimshaw regarded the demolition as ‶vandalism and sacrilege,″ and would mean the desecration of the graves of many once prominent citizens of Derby.

The Vicar (the Rev Hector Bywater) said the church had a capacity of 450, yet only about 15 communicants and congregations of upwards of 50. It was far too large nowadays, and an estimate of the amount required on repairs for the church had been £50,000. The decisions of the Ministries will be announced at a later date.

Ringing World 21/04/1967 p272

ST, ALKMUND'S, DERBY. BELLS RUNG FOR LAST TIME

The bells of St. Alkmund's, Derby, were rung for the last time on April 8th, the day of the annual general meeting of the Derby Diocesan Association. The church passed over to Derby Corporation on April 3rd but our correspondent believes that services are being held there until April 26th.

The future of the bells is unknown: an assurance has been given by the diocesan authorities that the ring of eight will not be broken up but, apart from that, the Vicar and PCC are non-committal.

The views of Derby Association have been conveyed to the Bishop and a letter from the Association is going to the local Press as it is hoped that a home for the bells may be found at a Derby church or one in the diocese.

The proposed extension and redevelopment of Derby is likely to make several churches in the centre redundant. Recently St. Andrew's Church was considered to be a liability in view of the population movement. It is suggested that a smaller church be built but nothing has yet been settled. St. Andrew's houses a ring of ten.

Ringing World 12/05/1967 p326

BELFRY GOSSIP

APPEAL FOR ST ALKMUND'S. DERBY, BELLS

Mr B P Morris, the general secretary of the Derby Diocesan Association, is doing his best to ensure that after St Alkmund's Church is closed for demolition a home should be found for its fine bells either in Derby or where they could be hung for ringing in the traditional English manner or, failing that, at a church somewhere in the Diocese.

‶We should very much regret if this fine ring was disposed of in any other way - e.g. to be hung 'dead' for chiming in the Continental fashion,″ he writes in a letter to ‶The Derby Evening Telegraph.″ The letter continues: ‶Many people, whatever their religion, like to hear the sound of church bells. When a ring of bells goes out of use for one reason or another it is often non-church-goers who miss them, and when an appeal is launched for a restoration, the response is often beyond all expectation. This Association, with its expert advisers, hopes that it may he able to help the Diocese in the re-establishment of the St Alkmund's ring in a church in the Diocese and believes that this should be the first consideration in its final disposal.″

Ringing World 02/06/1967 p376

ST ALKMUND'S, DERBY

Dear Sir,

The bells of St Alkmund's have now been dismantled and have been placed into store. An account in ‶The Derby Evening Telegraph″ of the final services gave a rather misleading account of the bells, in which it said they were to be stored until the new St Alkmund's Church was built. This was contradictory to my letter, and I tried to contact the Vicar and although he was not available his wife said that this was completely untrue - the new church would not have a tower suitable for a ring of bells, and even if that was so, its close proximity to a hospital would greatly restrict ringing. However, what I did learn was that negotiations were in progress to sell the ring to a church in the USA.

I immediately sent another letter to ‶The Derby Evening Telegraph″ denying the report on the bells being stored for use in the new church and expressed regret that the ring should be sold to the USA. The editor has since replied that he is officially informed that it is not true that ‶negotiations are in progress to sell the ring to a church in the USA" and that the Bishop and his advisers are still considering the future of the bells.

A report is out today on the future of Derby churches, in which sweeping changes are proposed. Among the churches becoming redundant are St Werburgh's, whose ring of eight bells was sold as scrap about ten years ago, and St Andrew's, which posseses a fine ring of ten.

Of St Andrew's, the report says the church is very large for the community it now serves and would need a considerable sum to carry out a restoration. ‶We recommend that there should be consultation with British Rail as to how best the church may maintain its association and serve the growing railway industry in Derby. We recommend that the church should be demolished when the proposed major parish is formed. It is proposed that the neighbouring Church of the Holy Trinity should merge with St Andrew's, to be known as 'Holy Trinity and St Andrew's.″ The Holy Trinity Church has a brick tower, but is opposite to the Derbyshire Royal Infirmary. It is doubtful whether this tower would take a ring of bells such as that at St Andrew's.

Between the two world wars and, I believe, prior to the 1914-18 war, St Andrew's had a very famous band, and even in recent years they were getting a reasonable band together but to have it broken up by a recent incumbent. Maybe he broke the parish up, too. I rang my first quarter there for Solemn Evensong for the Patronal Festival in 1957; it was quite a good parish then. The Holy Trinity Church being CPA, has an entirely different tradition.

It is hoped that when the time comes for St Andrew's Church to be demolished a home will be found for the bells.

What is happening in Derby may well happen in other large towns and the future of other churches with rings of bells may well be in jeopardy. It may perhaps be a case in which the Central Council may wish to take an interest.

Yours faithfully
B P MORRIS
Hon Secretary
Derby Diocesan Association

Ringing World 05/05/1967 p299

DERBY DIOCESAN ASSOCIATION'S 21ST AGM

Over 80 members and friends were present on April 1st, when the 21st annual general meeting of the Derby Diocesan Association was held in Derby. Prior to the service in the Cathedral, conducted by the Association's president, the Provost of Derby, ringing took place at the Cathedral (10) and at St Alkmund's (8), which is shortly to be demolished.

There would, unfortunately, be no further ringing at St Alkmund's, Derby, as the church is to be used only for services until April 30th, after which it is to be demolished to make way for a new ring road. As the new church is to be built at the side of a hospital the fate of the bells, which it is hoped will be kept as a ring of eight and not broken up, hangs very much in the balance.

Derby Diocesan Association Annual Report 1964

REPORT OF BELL CONSULTANTS

St Alkmund's, Derby. A close watch is being kept regarding the future of this peal of bells. The date for demolition of the church has not yet been definitely fixed; delays being incurred to the legal processes needed to deal with objections to the proposed demolition.

Derby Diocesan Association Annual Report 1967

REPORT OF BELL CONSULTANTS

St Alkmund's, Derby. The last service was held on 30lh April. A few days later, the work of demolition, to make way for the new ring road commenced. It is hoped that a home will be found for the fine peal of eight bells in a church close to Derby, and to that end the Association has offered substantial financial assistance to meet the cost of any scheme which meets with its approval. Suggestions of possible churches have also been made.

Derby Diocesan Association Annual Report 1968

REPORT OF BELL CONSULTANTS

St Alkmund's Bells, Derby. Since the demolition of St. Alkmund's these bells have remained at the Loughboro' Bell Foundry. Their future is still undecided..

Derby Diocesan Association Annual Report 1969

REPORT OF BELL CONSULTANTS

St Alkmund's Bells, Derby. Since the demolition of St. Alkmunds these bells have remained at the Loughboro Bell Foundry. It is hoped that now the new Bishop of Derby has been appointed their future will be decided.

Derby Diocesan Association Annual Report 1970

REPORT OF BELL CONSULTANT

St Alkmund's Bells, Derby. Since the demolition of St Alkmund's these bells have remained at the Loughborough Bell Foundry. A major step forward has been made in as much as St Alkmund's PCC have now agreed to part with the peal of bells as a gift to any church prepared to accept them.

Derby Diocesan Association Annual Report 1971

REPORT OF BELL CONSULTANT

St Alkmund's. It is hoped to make a positive step during 1972 towards installing this peal in a church within the Diocese.

Derby Diocesan Association Annual Report 1972

REPORT OF BELL CONSULTANTS

Breadsall. These bells wilt be augmented to eight during the first half of 1973. The treble from St. Alkmund's Derby is being used as the second of the two trebles in the augmentation.

Derby Diocesan Association Annual Report 1973

REPORT OF BELL CONSULTANTS

St Alkmund's, Derby. At last a home has been found for the seven remaining bells from St Alkmund's. They are going as a free gift to St James Whitchaven where they will become part of a new peal of ten bells. The church in Whitehaven is the main parish church in a large industrial town with no bells in any of its churches. The Cumberland and Westmoreland Association is playing a large part in this scheme.

Ringing World, 1977, p459

SOME RINGING REMISCENCES
by A Mould

[Referring to learning to ring in the 1920s]

The ringing master at St Alkmund's. Derby, was George Freebrey, and Jack [Bailey] and I used to go there, and here also Harold Taylor learnt to handle a bell.

Derby Evening Telegraph 16/12/1978

Derby bells in a new home

The Bishop of Derby, Dr Cyril Bowles, yesterday visited Whitehaven, Cumbria, to dedicate the bells that used to hang in the old St Alkmund's Church, in their new home.

Derby Diocesan Association Annual Report 1978

REPORT FOR THE YEAR

An event which linked Derby with Cumbria was celebrated in December when the Bishop of Derby dedicated the ten bells at Whitehaven. Seven of these formerly hung in the tower of St. Alkmund's Church, Derby. Five Derbyshire ringers travelled north to share in this event and to represent our Association, and on the following day rang in the first quarter peal on the bells. Harold Taylor found personal satisfaction in this since the bell he rang was the bell on which he had learned to ring at St Alkmund's no less than 51 years earlier!

REPORT OF THE BELL CONSULTANTS

On Friday, December 15th, 1978 the seven remaining bells taken from the demolished Church of St Alkmund's, Derby (treble went to Breadsall) and installed as the back end of a peal of ten bells at St James' Church, Whitehaven were dedicated by the Bishop of Derby. A fitting end to a story that has gone on for a decade or more. Denis Carlisle, Harold Taylor, Clive Bryant, Fred Ross and Gordon Halls went up to Whitehaven for the ceremony and all five were invited to ring in the first touch and to ring in the first quarter peal of Grandsire Caters next day. Our thanks are due to the Bishop of Derby for making it possible for the bells to be saved by agreeing to give the bells, free of charge, to Whitehaven.

Plaque in Whitehaven Tower

THE RING OF TEN BELLS IN THIS TOWER WAS DEDICATED ON 15TH DECEMBER 1978 BY CYRIL, LORD BISHOP OF DERBY

Seven of the bells came from the former Church of St Alkmund, Derby. The front three bells were newly cast from the original bell of this church. They commemorate the old Parishes of Holy Trinity and Christ church, Whitehaven, and the late Thomas Stanley Durham, sometime Churchwarden of St Nicholas Church and his wife Sarah Elizabeth.

The Whitehaven News 05/04/2007

The 18th century church of St James was built to take bells, but started off with just one bell and subsequent appeals to raise money for more weren’t very successful.

“We managed in 1976/77 to scrounge some from a redundant church in Derby that was being demolished, St Alkmund's, so then we had seven,’’ said Jack [McTear].

Three new ones were cast which made a ring of 10 and then for the Millennium year in 2000 another two were added. One was the Copeland Bell, funded by the council, and the other was dedicated in memory of former curate Russell Rebert.

The Whitehaven News 01/12/2011

The church has 12 bells in its tower, more than most churches have. It was built in 1752 by Carlisle Spedding.

In the 1970s the Bishop of Derby was looking for a home for eight bells from St Alkmunds church, and St James’ got seven of them. They have been given names – Trinity, Christchurch, St Nicholas and one named after a very much loved man, Russel Rebert.

In 1978 the Bishop came here to dedicate the bells. A group of riggers from Marchon helped to install them.

Explore Churches Website

Until 1978 we had but a single bell this was recast in 1978 when another seven bells were installed from the redundant St Alkmund’s Church, Derby, with a further two added in 1998 to complete our fine peal of twelve bells.

Whitehaven Parish Website

The Bells

In March 1753 a bell of about 20 cwts was purchased from Thomas Mears of Whitechapel, London at a cost of £149 3s 9½d.; the freight charge from London was £2. 7s. 7d. This bell did not prove to be satisfactory over the years, and in 1812 another bell, weighing 21 cwts, 14 lbs., was purchased from Thomas Mears & Co. London at a cost of £219. 8s. 2d plus £10. 10s. 9d for insurance and cartage. Freight charge from London was £3. Part of the old bell, 11cwts, 3 qrs, 17lbs at 15p.p. was sold to Thomas Mears & Co., for £83. 6s. 3d., with a set off of £1. 16s. 6d for freight to London, wharfage and cartage. In 1842 the second bell was recast by Thomas Mears & Co., of London at a cost of 13 pence per pound for a weight of 22 cwts. 1 qr. 15 lbs. A rigger was paid £2. 3s. 10d, for taking down and hanging the bell and insurance on the bell was 16s. 4d to and 16s. 8d from London. Weighing the bell for shipment was 3d. and the Bill of Lading charge 1s. 1½d. This bell now forms Bells 3, 4 and 5 in the modern peal.

With its massive tower St. James Church had long suggested a peal of bells. However this did not come about until 1978 when a peal of 10 bells was created, supplemented to 12 in 1998 (although a subscription list to provide funds for a peal was mooted as far back as 1775), whereas its neighbours Hensingham St. John’s and Cleator Moor St. John’s long had fine peals. It was once a source of comment in the town with the clashing of the St. James’s and Holy Trinity bells toned in E and the St. Nicholas’ bell toned in F.

The Church now has a fine peal of 12 bells- full details of which are given below. This peal is the same size as that of St. Paul’s Cathedral, London. The number 6 to 12 bells were originally in the Church of St. Alkmund, Derby and were rededicated here on the 15^th December 1978 by Cyril, Lord Bishop of Derby.

Bell 1 Note B Founded Taylor 1998, Dedication “Revd Russell Rebert”, bearing the symbol of the Sri Lankan Church, weight 3 cwt 0 qtrs 22 lb

Bell 2 Note C Founded Taylor 1998, Carries the Copeland Borough Council coat of Arms, weight 3 cwt 1 qtr 18 lb

Bell 3 Note A Founded 1978 Taylor from Original 1753 Bell Dedicated “In memory of Thomas Stanley Durham [sometime St. Nicholas Churchwarden] and Sarah Elizabeth, his wife.” weight 3cwt 1qtr 16 lb

Bell 4 Note G Founded 1978 Taylor from Original 1753 Bell -The Christ Church Bell- Inscribed “Nomen et memoriam continuare Ecclesiae Christi 1847-1977”, weight 3 cwt 3 qtr 10lb

Bell 5 Note F Founded 1978 Taylor from Original 1753 Bell - The Trinity Bell - Inscribed “Nomen et memoriam continuare Ecclesiae Sanctae Trinitatis 1715-1949”, weight 4 cwt 1 qtr 9 lb

Bell 6 Note E 1846 Recast Taylor 1908, weight 4 cwt 2 qtr 6 lb

Bell 7 Note D 1846 Recast Taylor 1908, weight 5 cwt 1 qtr 4 lb

Bell 8 Note C 1846 Recast Taylor 1908, weight 5 cwt 3 qtr 25 lb

Bell 9 Note Bb 1588 Recast 1846 & 1908, weight 7cwt 0qtr 17lb

Bell 10 Note A Oldfield 1586 Inscribed “Ut tuba sic resona ad templa venite pii”, weight 8 cwt 1 qtr 22 lb

Bell 11 Note G Oldfield, possibly 1624, Inscribed “All glori be to God on high- 1624”, weight 10 cwt 2 qtr 3 lb

Bell 12 Note F Recast Taylor 1872, weight 16 cwt 0 qtr 1 lb

[The bells in italics are those from St Alkmund's]

Carlisle Diocesan Guild Newsletter Winter 2020/1

Jack McTear, an appreciation from Pat Halls

In 1978 seven of the eight bells which had hung in the tower of St. Alkmund, Derby were transferred to the tower of St. James in Whitehaven. St. Alkmund‘s church had been demolished to make way for a new inner ring road in Derby. The then Bishop of Derby made the bells available, free of charge, to any parish which could provide a suitable new home for them. Several parishes applied, but the successful one was that of St. James in Whitehaven, Cumbria. There followed a lot of planning and work, both in Derbyshire and Cumbria, to raise the necessary funds to bring the plan to fruition. Jack McTear was the leading project manager in Whitehaven. Three trebles were to be added to the seven bells from Derby, thus making a ring of ten bells.

After much planning, the bells were installed and were dedicated in December 1978. A contingent of ringers from Derby visited Whitehaven for the dedication of the new ten. Prior to this Jack had been busy teaching a new band for Whitehaven, with the help of several other ringers from nearby towers.

Wikepedia entry for St Alkmund's

Construction of the church caused controversy among the Catholic citizens of Derby. The 216-foot (66 m) spire was built directly in the line of sight of the Catholic St Mary's Church and, for many years, the Anglican church was referred to as "The Church of the Holy Spite".

During the mid-1950s it was discovered that the load-bearing wood in the steeple was warping and rotting. This led to the steeple being 'capped' and the top 20 feet were removed for restoration work to be done. This was done due to structural weaknesses being found in the stonework and woodwork in the steeple itself. Plans were laid down to replace the top of the steeple, but was never completed. Along with the top of the spire, several of the Gothic detailing pieces on the roof were also removed, but no reasons for this were ever given.

This gives information on all peals, quarter peals, and other long touches rung at St Alkmund's, Derby, where details have been found in ringing journals or local papers.

Peals

48 peals were rung on the bells at St Alkmund's. A list can be seen on the Felstead web site, and further details of most of the peals can be seen on Bellboard.

Quarter Peals

Other Performances