School launches bid to restore artefact and find out its history

STAFF and pupils at Over St John's Primary School are hoping an age-old fable will ring a bell with former pupils.

Once upon a time there was a large bell that rang proudly in the school's belfry to call pupils to class.

But one dark day, the date lost in the mists of time, the bell collapsed from its high and mighty perch and silence rang all around.

Well, not quite silence - but staff have had to make do with a handbell.

Now, to mark the millennium, they want to put the bell back in its rightful place - and find out when and how the bell fell.

Deputy headteacher Sally Gray said: "I've traced the school records back to 1918, but there is no mention of the bell.

"It is a mystery and we desperately want to find out why and when it collapsed.

"The bell is always having to be moved around as it's in the way, which is very difficult because it's so heavy. We really want to re-hang the bell and use it for its original purpose."

The school had a quote of £2,000 to replace the bell which would include strengthening the bell tower and supports.

Staff are hoping kind-hearted former pupils may be able to help out with the cost - and of course solve the riddle of the bell.

Anyone with information should ring the school on 01606 592608.