Bellringing at St James’s

St James' Bushey has 8 bells, the heaviest being over 13 hundred-weight. We have a good mix of ringers of all ages and abilities, and we are lucky that many ringers based at other Churches in the local area visit us. We usually ring on a Sunday at 9am before the 9.30am Service. Regular practice night is on a Thursday (except the first Thursday in the month) from 7.30pm to 9pm – everyone is welcome to come along and see what we do.

If you would like to have a try and fancy having a go at ringing our newly rehung bells, do please contact the Tower Captain, Stuart Brant (see below).

We are always keen to recruit new bellringers – most people from about the age 10 upwards can do it! Bellringing is a great challenge, and wonderful life experience. In addition to learning a traditional English skill, you could also learn how to become an effective team player and how to interact with people from all age groups and varied walks of life.

During the year, we arrange an annual outing, where we visit other Churches by prior arrangement to ring their bells. This is always a fun day which usually finishes with a good curry and social nearby. We are involved in the Bushey Festival, and take many people on a tour of the tower, give them a go on the end of a bellrope, and show them the amazing view from the roof – everyone thoroughly enjoys this day. We also ring Handbells in various Services at St James’ throughout the year.

We are part of the Hertford County Association of Change-Ringers