New Bells Ring Out at Vernet-les-Bains - 18th April 2019

The Entente Cordiale between the UK and France was renewed as English Bells rang out in sympathy and solidarity with the people of Paris after Notre-Dame Cathedral was ravaged by fire on 15th April.

Following discussions between the British Ambassador in Paris, Edward Llewellyn and the Diocese in Europe, the Archbishops of Canterbury and York asked cathedrals and churches across England to toll their bells for seven minutes at 7pm on Maundy Thursday as a mark of solidarity.

The newly installed ring of ten bells in Vernet-les-Bains was among the churches taking part together with Westminster Abbey and St Paul's Cathedral, and cathedrals and churches across the UK.

A quarter peal of 1296 Plain Bob Caters was rung at 10:00 am on Maundy Thursday, 18th April followed at 7pm by a single bell that tolled for 7 minutes.

Speaking at the Easter Day service, the Priest in Charge of St George's, Reverend David Phillips said:

"Our hearts went out to the people of France and the Christian community in Paris when we heard the terrible news of the devastating fire at Notre-Dame Cathedral. This special ringing made possible by the installation of our ten new bells is our way of showing our empathy and solidarity with all the people of France."