A PASSIONATE plea has been made to the Holsworthy community to help preserve an important tradition within the town.

Holsworthy Bellringers have said that they need to raise £20,000 to undertake essential repairs to the bells at Holsworthy Church.

Without the repair work being undertaken, the bells, which were famously the home to ‘Air to Holsworthy Church Bells’ composed for Holsworthy Church Bells by SS Wesley.will fall silent, as will the Carillon which to have in a bell church is rare.

The bells at Holsworthy were recast in 1949 by Gillett and Johnson bellhangers and are highly regarded as being amongst the very best peals in Devon and are well known for their distinctive Gillett and Johnston sound and characterful tone.

A spokesperson for the Holsworthy Bellringers said: “A recent inspection has been completed by John Taylor & Co, Bellhangers who have identified that the clappers need to be replaced, together with the crown staples. The main bearings and main gudgeons need to be inspected and replaced.

“The cost of this work is £20,000.This work needs to be completed to ensure that the ringing tradition at Holsworthy is able to continue. We will be very grateful if you are able to support this project.”

Details on how to support the fundraiser and donate are available on the Holsworthy Bellringers Facebook page.