One of our bell ringers, Michelle Stephenson, recently celebrated her 50^th birthday on 9^th January 2026.

At this time we also realised that she was just about ready to attempt her first peal.

Although apprehensive about ringing continuously for three hours, Michelle agreed to give it a go as it was an opportunity not to be missed. So, on 8^th February 2026, a full peal on the ten bells of St Andrew’s was successfully completed to celebrate Michelle’s 50^th.

Very well done Michelle and thanks to all who took part in this occasion.

Full details are shown below with a photograph of the band.

Essex Association

Hornchurch, Essex

St Andrew

Sunday, 8 February 2026 in 3h 20min

5039 Grandsire Caters

Composed by George F Williams

1 Michelle A Stephenson

2 Helen J Carter

3 Clara M Waller

4 Marianne R Hayward

5 Lucas J Owen

6 John M Church

7 William J Stungo

8 Roderic K Bickerton

9 Clive J Stephenson (C)

10 James P Riley

Rung to celebrate the recent 50th birthday of Michelle Stephenson and 70th birthday of Andrew Barham.

First peal – 1.

First Grandsire – 3.