HIGH praise was given to a much-valued and well established community group after being presented with a cheque by the mayor.

The donation to the Holsworthy Bellringers, presented on behalf of Holsworthy Town Council by the mayor, Cllr Nigel Kenneally, is set to benefit the group’s efforts to raise enough funds to restore the bells in the town’s church tower.

Months after a generous benefactor came forward to pay for the majority of the funds required for the repair to the church clock and the carillon, the current generation of volunteers who have provided the soundtrack to the skies in Holsworthy for decades have continued with their efforts to raise funds to restore the bells.

The £1,000 pound contribution from the town council represents five percent of the £20,000 that the volunteers have been determinedly fundraising for over a long period of time and brings them closer to their target.

An inspection has been completed by John Taylor & Co, Bellhangers who identified a series of work which needs to take place.

This includes a replacement of the clappers, together with the crown staples, with the main bearings and main gudgeons also requiring inspection and replacement.

The completion of the work is required to ensure that the ringing tradition at Holsworthy is able to continue.

After the cheque presentation, the mayor of Holsworthy said he was honoured to present the cheque.

Cllr Nigel Kenneally, the mayor of Holsworthy, said: “I was absolutely honoured to present a cheque on behalf of Holsworthy Town council for £1000 to the bell ringers of St Peter and St Paul's Church for their bell fund.

“The church and the bells are integral part of our community. So knowing this money will help them fills me with a great sense of pride. Long may the bells continue to ring!”