Grandsire Triples at Bagshot, Surrey

Some video and audio excerpts from a quarter peal of Grandsire Triples at Bagshot feature the bells. Thanks to Luca Greenslade for the photos and one of the ringing room excerpts. The bells here are quite characterful, with very interesting harmonics.

The bells at St Anne's Church are particularly fascinating, especially the back six, which have a unique history and sound. These six bells were originally cast in 1883 by John Warner and Sons. In 1912, they underwent significant retuning by Gillett, who wanted to experiment with their sound. As part of this experiment, Gillett added two trebles to complete the octave, resulting in a very distinct tonal quality.

Many people consider the retuning a failure, believing that the bells now sound odd and should be retuned again. One reason for this perception is that the bells are slightly oddstruck, meaning they do not strike exactly in the correct position. This oddstruck quality can make the bells sound a bit unusual and challenging to ring perfectly in time. Despite these criticisms, I find the bells to be incredibly unique and charming. The grand boom they produce is unlike anything else, and their distinctiveness adds to the character of the tower.

The harmonics created by the retuning process are particularly interesting. While some might find the sound unconventional or even jarring, I enjoy the rich, resonant tones that fill the air when the bells are rung. The blend of the old casting with the experimental retuning gives these bells a voice that tells a story of their own, reflecting both their Victorian origins and the early 20th-century modifications.

The bells also ring very nicely for the tower they are in. Given their size and the complexity of their tuning, it is quite surprising that they fit so well in the belfry. This combination of historical craftsmanship and modern experimentation makes ringing these bells a joyful experience, despite their quirks. The uniqueness of the sound and the challenge of ringing them perfectly adds a special dimension to the experience, making it deeply rewarding for those who appreciate their distinctive qualities.

St Anne's Church in Bagshot, built in a neo-gothic style during the Victorian era, boasts a rich history and unique architectural features. The church, about 130 years old, became its own parish in 1874, breaking away from Windlesham village. Its construction was significantly supported by Prince Arthur, Duke of Connaught, and it was consecrated in April 1884. The attractive red brick building, adorned with stone details under a slate roof, includes a bell tower with a peal of eight bells. This tower is a significant element of the church, adding to its charm and historical value.

Inside, St Anne's features a secondary altar known as the 'Stuart Chapel,' commemorating an early parish vicar. The church complex expanded in 2005/6 with the addition of a new Church Centre, opened by the Bishop of Guildford. This modern facility, connected to the main church by a glazed lobby, reflects the church's architectural style and offers accessible meeting spaces, Sunday School facilities, and more.

No one knows why the church has St Anne as its Patron Saint. The village had a chapel dedicated to St Anne before the present church was built, and it is assumed that the name was carried over to the new building on its new site. The church grounds also house the Bagshot village war memorial, adding to its community importance.

Tenor 17-0-19 in Eb

https://dove.cccbr.org.uk/tower/15001

https://bb.ringingworld.co.uk/view.ph...