A SERVICE of dedication for the new bells and organ at St Nicholas's Church, Trellech, was presided over by the Archbishop of Wales, the Most Rev Rowan Williams.
During the service grateful thanks were extended to the Hoyal family and to Alan Watkins whose generosity made possible the addition of three new bells and an electric organ to the church.
The story of the Trellech bells began in 1642 when a tenor bell was cast in the churchyard. In 1704 two more bells were cast. Moving forward into 1969 when Charles Hoyal was vicar, he had the vision for the repair of the bells, which had then fallen into disrepair, and a fund was started.
During 1999 Mr Watkins made a generous donation to the church to provide a new bell for the Millennium. Plans were put into operation for the casting and before long the Hoyal family came forward with a gift to provide two further bells. These bells were cast by Taylors of Loughborough and now provide a fine ring for Trellech.
During the service the bells were by a team of newly trained ringers from Trellech and visiting ringers. After the service Tower Captain Nick Hoyal made a presentation of thanks to Mr J Barnes, Mr N Taylor and Mr J Theophulis for all their hard work in erecting and fitting the new tower floor and hanging the bells.
A parish harvest tea was served in the church and despite the heavy rain people were able to go outside and listen to the bells.