A CHURCH bell has been restored in time to ring out in celebration of Christmas.

The congregation at St Chad's Church, in Great Habton, has raised £14,000 to restore the bell, which dates back to Victorian times, after discovering it needed a range of repairs.

Churchwarden Camilla Tetley said that as with all old buildings one problem led to another.

"It all started with the cross on the bell cote crashing to the ground," she said.

"It was necessary to lower the bell to the ground and a closer examination showed it was in need of restoration. While this was being done the builder noticed the wooden bell cote was rotten in places, not to mention essential repairs needed on the roof and water pipes."

The bell was sent to specialist campanologists in Oxfordshire, and the essential roof repairs started. After 18 months the work has been completed and the bell rehung.

Camilla said: "It's thanks to local fundraising and donations, plus grants from The Brunton Trust, Garfield Weston, The Diocese of York, Yorkshire Historic Churches Trust and the All Churches Trust, that we had the confidence to get the work underway, and we're still hoping to get a little more to reach the full amount.

"It's good to have the bell back in place, knowing that the roof is water tight, and we hope the sound of the bell will bring people in to our Christmas services."

Resident Heather Nichols, who also rings the bell, said: "'I've really missed the bell', so its wonderful to hear it again, and know that its restored to its former glory."

York Diocesan Bell advisor John Arthur, who has overseen the restoration, added: "It's a satisfactory job accomplished something the parish ought to be proud of."