Thanks to a donation of £1,600 by Postcode Publications, renovation of the first of three bell-tower louvres is underway at St Faith’s Church, Havant. The completion of the louvres will be the final step in improving the appearance of Havant’s oldest continually-used public building – following the renovations of the clock faces, weather-vane and flag-pole in recent years (funded largely by supporters of Postcode Publications). This is part of St Faith’s ‘Big Build Campaign’, which along with the outside improvements, has also carried out extensive renovations to the inside of the building.
The louvres are a vital part of the ancient art of bell-ringing, which has been taking place at St Faith’s for at least 400 years. The louvres direct the sound of the bells downwards to the ground, enabling them to be heard clearly and accurately by all. They also protect the bell chamber itself from the ingress of birds.
Donations are urgently required to complete the North and South-facing louvres, to complete this landmark project. Donations to St Faith’s ‘Big Build Campaign’ can be made in the Parish Office (2 North Street) ), Tuesday to Friday mornings, or online anytime at https://www.totalgiving.co.uk/donate/theparochial- church-council-of-theecclesiastical- parish-of-st-faith-havant
The Havant ringers are always on the look-out for new members, and welcome enquiries from anyone who would like to learn this ancient skill. Practice sessions are held every Tuesday evening, from 7.30pm. Or, for an informal chat, call the Rector, Canon Tom Kennar, on 07881 025592, or email tomkennar@gmail.com