St Elwyn’s Bell Returns With a Ringing Good Story

After a long spell of silence, the bell of St Elwyn’s Church is back where it belongs swinging happily in the tower and ringing out across Hayle with renewed sparkle. And like all the best Hayle tales, this one involves determination, local heroes, a bit of rust, and a lot of tea.

The adventure began when Taylor’s Bell Foundry worked their magic on the headstock, gudgeons and clapper, giving these hardworking parts the equivalent of a spa day. Once refurbished, they were handed over to Cornwall’s own bell‑whisperer, Owen Borlase, who arrived with tools in hand to re‑hang the bell with expert care. The PCC has been full of praise for Owen’s skill and generosity, and rightly so: Cornwall is lucky to have him.

Meanwhile, high in the tower, David has been waging a noble battle against rust. Armed with primer, red oxide paint, and a heroic sense of purpose, he scraped, brushed, and painted the bell frame until it gleamed. Not content with that, he also repainted two tower doors and began repairs on the bell chamber door, proving once again that volunteers are the beating heart of St Elwyn’s.

Elizabeth, who has been coordinating the whole project, summed up the moment the bell finally rang again: “The ringing movement is very smooth and the bell is sounding superb. It’s been a very good day!” And indeed it has one of those quietly joyful days when a church’s history, community, and future all chime together.

To celebrate this triumph of teamwork and elbow grease, St Elwyn’s is throwing open its doors on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th May for a weekend of bell‑themed cheer:

  • Cream Teas in the church and churchyard (jam first, naturally)
  • The chance to hear the newly restored bell ring out in all its glory
  • A special Evensong on Sunday 17th May, giving thanks for the restoration and all who made it possible

It promises to be a warm, friendly weekend part celebration, part thanksgiving, part excuse for cake. Whether you’re a regular, a neighbour, or simply someone who enjoys the sound of a well‑behaved bell, you’re warmly invited to join in.