Bawburgh Church
Saint Mary and Saint Walstan's Church, Bawburgh dates back to Saxon times, and is closely associated with Saint Walstan who was born and buried in Bawburgh. There was a church here in 1016, the year of Saint Walstan's burial and the round tower may well have been in existence then. The round tower is capped by a flame made of oak, as a symbol of the tongues of fire descending on the early Christians at Pentecost.
The congregation is open and welcoming and the style of services reflects this. A childrens' area is provided.
Restoration of the Bell
The bell was restored and rehung in October 2014. The bell weighs
several tons and is dated 1635. It was cast by the famous Norwich bell maker
John Brend. The work involved removal of the bell from its cradle so that a
new headstock (the beam that carries the bell) could be inserted and then
the alteration of the ringing device so that instead of being chimed the
bell is partially swung. What is rather nice is that several of the newly
installed parts come from other churches in Norfolk - the headstock and
clapper come from Saxlingham Nethergate, the chiming lever from St Nicholas
Kings Lynn and the bell rope from Necton. Its rather good to know these
items have been 'recycled!' Peter Trent, the craftsman carrying out the
work, has pointed out that several of the oak beams in the ringing chamber
supporting the bell mechanism are considerably older than the bell itself
and are in remarkedly good condition, considering their age.
Further information on the restoration of the bell (with pictures)
Detailed information on our Church can be found on the Norfolk Churches website: norfolkchurches.co.uk