Bells have been an important part of the English soundscape for centuries, especially in the context of churches. The origins of bell ringing in the UK can be traced back to the early medieval period, where bells were used to call people to prayer, mark the passage of time, and signal important events such as weddings and funerals. Over time, bell ringing developed into a highly skilled art form with intricate patterns and methods of ringing by groups of ringers known as bands.

Bells have also been used as means of communication, to warn of impending invasion by the Germans during the second world war for example. Today, bell ringing continues to be a popular tradition in many churches, none more so than at St John’s where the sound of bells pealing out from the tower is an integral part of the heritage of Corby Glen.