Credits to Euan Thomas for the last photo.
An excerpt from a peal of Mixed Minor methods rung at St Vedast, Foster Lane on Saturday, 5th October 2024. The methods included two extents of Cambridge, one extent of Double Oxford, two of St Clements, and two of Plain Bob. I had the pleasure of organising the peal myself, and the ringing went well - we achieved some really decent ringing, making for an enjoyable day.
The bells at St Vedast are a 16cwt peal of six, cast in 1960 by Mears and Stainbank. They’re a fine-toned six and handle beautifully, though they can be a bit tricky when rung fast. Despite that, they go well overall, and I’d love to ring here again.
St Vedast is a historic church, first founded before 1308. It was extensively repaired after the Great Fire of London in 1666 under the direction of Sir Christopher Wren, though some medieval elements, like the south wall, were preserved. The current tower was rebuilt in 1695-98, with its baroque spire added between 1709 and 1712, possibly designed by Nicholas Hawksmoor.
The church was gutted during the London Blitz, but post-war restoration by Stephen Dykes Bower between 1953 and 1962 recreated much of its former beauty. Dykes Bower’s design includes features from other bomb-damaged City churches, such as the pulpit from All Hallows Bread Street and the font from St Anne and St Agnes. He also commissioned stained glass windows by Whitefriars, featuring scenes from the life of St Vedast.
The church's bells were recast in 1960 by Mears and Stainbank after the originals, dating back to 1671, were cracked during the Blitz. Today, St Vedast remains an architectural gem, with its lively baroque steeple, stunning stained glass, richly decorated ceiling, and peaceful courtyard. It's a joy to ring here, and its historical significance only adds to the experience.
Tenor 16-2-12 in F
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6 окт 2024
