As work takes place to restore the WW1 Memorial Bells at Bradford Cathedral, a call has rung out for volunteer welcomers and guides to show visitors around a planned new heritage exhibition.
Funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund means that work has now started to repair and restore Bradford Cathedral’s WWI memorial bells and improve access to the ringing chamber and belfry.
Part of the funding is being used to develop a new interactive visitor experience says Diane Hadwen, Heritage Education Assistant.
“We are developing an exciting exhibition in a range of media with interactive experiences and a focus on story-telling to interpret the heritage of the WWI memorial bells.
“The exhibition will have two main themes - the WWI memorial stories of those who are remembered in the inscriptions on the bells and the cultural tradition of change ringing.
“This will be underpinned by a varied programme of activities designed to share our heritage more with people, across a wider range with a particular focus on young people and families.”
Volunteers from the local community and diocese will be key to the success of the project.
Jeanette Sunderland, Coordinator of Volunteers, said, “To support the many visitors who will visit our WW1 Heritage Bells exhibition we are in search of warm, friendly Welcomers who will greet our visitors.
“All we ask is a minimum of three hours per month. Volunteers support the work of our paid staff to enhance the daily life of the Cathedral which would be impossible without their help. It gives people an opportunity to serve God and their community, make friends, and learn new skills.
“We welcome volunteers from any faith and culture, although we do expect volunteers who interact with visitors to present the faith and worship of the Cathedral in a positive light.”
Bell ringers are also being sought once the bells are fully restored. “We are also seeking to recruit and train new bell ringers so we once again have a full band”, adds Jeanette.
“The bells will be heard across the city again, announcing our presence to all, and the tradition of change ringing in Bradford will be preserved.”
If you are interested in volunteering with us email Jeanette on volunteers@bradfordcathedral.org or call 01274 777720. You can also apply online using the simple form www.bradfordcathedral.org/get-involved/volunteering/