Neil McCollum of English Heritage and Libby Alexander of RforE

The Campaign has received a much appreciated and warm endorsement at a meeting held at the London headquarters of English Heritage. There were many ideas that were held in common to both sides especially the appreciation of our architectural heritage and that the Campaign was a suitable celebration of England’s Patron Saint. Neil McCollum is the Historic Properties Director for the SE and General Manager of Dover Castle and he met Libby Alexander of RforE where it was generously agreed that as many properties as possible that had bells would in some way play their part on the day.  This could take the format of inviting the public to come and try their hand at ringing a bell and so be part of the national event on April 23rd.  It would also be a great way of acknowledging William Shakespeare’s 400th anniversary which is also on April 23rd this year.

Dover Castle Chapel

The Trust has been instrumental in saving and restoring hundreds of churches throughout the country.  Without their intervention many of these unique and precious buildings would have been lost, together with their towers and bells.  RforE and CCT have much in common with their aims to conserve and promote the heritage of the country and ringing out for St.George’s Day every year is very much part of this project. During the meeting between Libby Alexander of RforE and Anthony Bennett, Director of Development for CCT, ideas were shared as to how best to achieve these goals.

Crispin Truman, Chief Executive CCT, Libby Alexander of RforE, Anthony Bennett of CCT