The People Behind Thorley’s Bells | David Jackson
Show notes
David Jackson - St James the Great, Thorley Bell Ringers
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If you hear the bells from St James the Great in Thorley, David Jackson is one of the people helping to ring them. He joins James to explain what happens inside the tower, how beginners learn, and why there is much more to bell ringing than pulling a rope.
David has been ringing for around four years. He talks about learning different patterns, practising with the band and the teamwork behind the sound that travels across the neighbourhood. He even brings a small bell along to demonstrate how it works. There is also a surprising insight into peals that can last for three hours or more.
The conversation covers ringing for church services, weddings and funerals, and how interested newcomers can arrange a visit. David asks people to make contact first so the band can have enough experienced ringers available to help.
David also shares details of a truck and train fundraising event on Saturday 10 October 2026 at the Emmaus Centre. He describes model displays and tours of the ringing room, with access to the belfry dependent on enough volunteers being available. In the interview, he gives the adult price as £8. Contact the church for event times and the latest arrangements.
Away from the tower, David is a Bikeability instructor. James first met him while he was teaching Noah to ride. They discuss the confidence children gain and the instructors helping them develop cycling and road-safety skills.
Find David’s bell-ringing band through St James Thorley:
https://www.stjamesthorley.church/
Church office enquiries:
info@stjamesthorley.com
This is the church’s public office address, not David’s personal email. Ask to be put in touch with the bell-ringing band.
Stortford Spotlight
David’s Jackson Square billboard: an invitation to “become a swinger” and join the bell ringers. He explains that it is the bells that are swinging.
His local spot: The Toaster on South Street, for coffee and a snack.
https://linktr.ee/wearethetoaster
His local shoutout: his fellow Bikeability instructors, teaching children in all weathers and helping them build skills for life.
https://www.bikeability.org.uk/
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