On Tuesday March 23, the National Day of Reflection, the sound of church bells ringing will echo along the Kennet Valley to remember the start of the first national Lockdown and its consequences.
All bell ringing was forbidden by the House of Bishops in conjunction with the Central Council of Bellringers when the Lockdown began and the ban continues. On Tuesday at 12.01 following the minute silence, only the tenor bell will sound and will ring 100 blows at each of the three churches – St Mary’s Marlborough, St George’s Preshute, and St John the Baptist, Minal in memory of those who died or suffer as a result of the pandemic.
Meanwhile the ringers at each of these churches eagerly await the day when they are able once again to ring joyously to mark the end of all restrictions and bans caused by the pandemic.
The National Day of Reflection on Tuesday March 23 is being organised by Marie Curie and looks to reflect on our collective loss, to offer support for those bereaved and to hope for a brighter future. There will be a minute silence at 12 noon or shine a light at 8 pm. You are encouraged to take a candle, a torch or even your phone and stand outside with a light to remember someone who’s died and show your support to people going through a bereavement.
For more information click here.
Kennet Valley School’s Red Nose Day Danceathon
