THE restored ring of bells at Westbury parish church is to be re-dedicated by the Bishop of Tewkesbury, the Rt Rev John Went, at a ceremony this Sunday (February 27, 3pm).

Four of the bells are Abraham Rudhall originals, cast in Gloucester in 1711, and together with another two they make up the heaviest ring of six in the county.

The bells are now re-tuned, with new headstocks, running gear and modern bearings. Some £60,000, from last June's Big Lottery ITV People's Millions contest win, has now been spent, cutting at least a decade from the project timescale.

Other grants and on-going local fund-raising has amassed at least another £25,000 for other essential work, only part completed.

Tower captain John Simms says he is thrilled with the sound of the large bells, now a delight to ring. After 10 years' silence, open ringing will restart after the service, from 4pm to 6pm.

John says he welcomes all ringers to the service, and to ring, adding they should park at the Parish Hall in Rodley Road.

More work and funds are needed to install electrics for light and heat in the Grade 1 listed detached tower.

Conservation of peal boards, a photo display of the work, redecoration, possible step repairs and maybe a camera view of the bells and their oak-strutted and shingled steeple is now being considered.