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The Tower & Bells The present tower is dated 1635, see above the west door, and replaces an earlier structure. The reason for rebuilding is unclear but looking at the north and south clerestory and the west nave windows it is obvious that considerable damage to the nave West End accompanied removal of the earlier tower. Whether it was caused by fire or collapse may never be recalled for certain. The tower is recognised as one of the best examples of post reformation construction in the gothic style. It is in three stages. Resting on a moulded plinth it rises to an embattled parapet surmounted by pinnacles at each angle. There is a carved string course below the parapet. A spiral staircase is built into the south west corner of the tower with openings to the clock room, bell chamber and the tower roof. The final assent to the roof is very congested and obviously not intended for regular use! However there is a fine view from the top of the tower and it is, on occasions, possible to see up to seven other churches.The memorials in the base of the tower were probably moved to this location during some previous development in the church. Those to Mary Burnaby and to Thomas Miller, a barrister and gentleman who was a considerable benefactor to Brampton and to his friends, who included Samuel Pepys, are of special note. The War Memorial of the 1914 - 1918 war was originally the Reredos behind the high altar, but was rebuilt, engraved and placed in this position. Fragments of stone at the base of the tower are parts of a thirteenth century cross. There are also fragments of carved stone built into the tower which probably originated from the earlier structure.A church plan of 1834 shows a gallery at the West End of the nave; access to this was by a staircase, the remains of which can be seen in the south wall of the tower.The screen between the nave and tower, constructed in 1924, is a copy of the chancel screen built some 500 years earlier. Bells & Bell Ringing
The bells are rung for practice on Mondays from about 19.45. We ring a variety of methods from Call Changes to London surprise minor. Numbers present can be anything from 6 up to 15, we just never know, but we always have a good time. The evening is rounded off by a visit to the Dragoon for a pint or two. Sunday ringing is variable and depends a lot on what the morning services are and how much the ringers are involved in other activities. We are in the music group, help lead services and act as sidesmen, a versatile bunch. If you are thinking of joining us on a Sunday, a phone call may let you know if we are ringing, although experience shows that this is not always fool proof!! Ian on 01480 457525 e-mail Brampton Church John on 01480 384052 e-mail Brampton Church
Other Bellringing contacts
Ely
Dicesan Association of Church Bellringers |
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