The tower will be open from 11 am to 4 pm and you can step inside the ringing room on the ground floor, which is normally closed to non-ringers so you can experience what you would normally hear at weddings and church services. You will get the opportunity to see the bells rang and visit the belfry to see the bells up close. (Access to the belfry may be limited in number, due to the requirement to safely climb a steep old narrow staircase and ladder) You will be given the opportunity to have a go at ringing one of the bells with an instructor. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced ringer, you will find a welcoming band and a supportive environment right on your doorstep. We will also be holding a summer fete during this event which includes refreshments, stalls and a history talk of our links to Sir Richard Rich who was significant in the time of Henry VIII for the dissolution of our churches and see our rare historic medieval paintings.
St.Mary's the Virgin, Church Road, Moreton, Ongar, Essex, CM5 0JB
Access to the toilets will be at the village hall which is a 2 minute walk from the church.
We are combining the bell recruitment open day with the church Autumn fayre so there will be plenty of activities including having a go at bell ringing. The church has some 13th century historic wall paintings which have been restored so you can see a rare example of these paintings not normally found in Essex churches. Learn the history of how St. Mary's church had links with royalty and Richard Rich of Wolf Hall. Details are available in the church.
