Appeal Update - January 2002

We continue to be greatly encouraged by the support and interest shown by the people of Writtle in this project, but there is still some way to go before we reach our target of £130,000.  Our appeal fund now stands at just over £86,000 and, as reported in the last issue of Writtle News, ten of the bells have now been sponsored. 

There are just bells outstanding (the most expensive two!) number eleven at £15,700 and number twelve (the tenor) at £20,800.  If you are thinking of making a donation or sponsoring a bell, or you know someone who might wish to, then please do not hesitate to get in touch.

It was our original intention to have the new bells installed in time to celebrate the Queen's Golden Jubilee in June 2002. In order to achieve this we would need to place an order with the bell foundry fairly early in this year and before doing this we would need to be certain that we have sufficient funds.  Despite the fantastic support we have had, the prospect of having the funds to complete the project in time for the Jubilee is now looking less likely, but we are still very hopeful that we will have sufficient funds to enable the project to be completed within the Jubilee Year.

Our fundraising events over the last year have been very well supported and great fun.  So much so, that we are planning to repeat some of them.  The events planned for 2002 are given below.

• Writtle Handbell Ringers Concert - Saturday 16 March in All Saints Church
• Essex Police Band Concert - Saturday 27 April in All Saints Church
• Tower Open Day - Sunday 2 June
• Teddy Bear Event - Monday 3 June
• Barn Dance - Saturday 13 July at the Writtle Collage Tithe Barn
• Quiz Night - Saturday 28 September in the Village Hall
• Auction of Promises - Saturday 23 November in the Village Hall

Phil Stephens Tower Captain - 421022