The Tower
The Bells
Clearing The Tower And Protecting It
Supporing Our Work
The tower was added in around 1215, most probably by the nuns of Elstow, and has an early 13th century serrated ornament on the E side of the tower arch
The saddle back tower roof dates from the 19th century restoration
There is an inscription in the tower as part of earlier remodelling work
The tower is 45' high and was formerly embattled.
The Bells
In 1458 Alicia Terry, widow of John Terry, of Westbury, left, by Will, 20 shillings to the 'new bells' of Westbury church
The tenor bell, c. 1590, was made by William Watts of Bedford
The treble and second were both made by Henry Bagley of Chacombe in 1711, the former recast in 1898 by J Warner of London
The sanctus bell was cast in the 14th century and is listed as one of the oldest bells in Buckinghamshire
In 1847 there were 5 bells and a clock (see the recessed square on the exterior south wall of the tower). The clock has vanished and only 3 bells remain
There is a legend that 2 of the bells were stolen and taken to Mixbury!
Clearing The Tower And Protecting It
The tower currently has open louvres and birds have been entering for many years. The pictures below say it all!
We have managed to get grant funding and are in the process of having the bird waste removed and protective grilles installed
Restoring the bells to working order would be a massive undertaking and cost but is something we will consider once the tower is back in a safe state
Putting the bells back into working condition will be a major (and expensive) project
If you are able to support our work re the fabric of the church, we would be very grateful
You can do this either through Parish Giving here or generating free donations while online shopping using Easyfundraising
