Historic bell replaced ahead of Flora Day

The new bell was christened and installed at the Guildhall in Helston

A historic bell in Helston has been replaced ahead of one of Cornwall's most celebrated traditional events.

Helston Town Council said the Guildhall had been silent since last summer after the old bell, which was 200 years old, shattered to rusted iron work.

The new town bell was christened and lifted into place last week ahead of Flora Day on Wednesday.

Flora Day is a tradition for Helston celebrating the end of winter and honouring the "unique spirit and cultural heritage" of the town.

The old bell, which was 200 years old, shattered due to rust

Mayor of Helston Miles Kenchington said the previous bell had been in place since 1839.

He said the new bell was installed ahead of Flora Day so it could ring for each of the dances.

"We had to have a new bell because, surprisingly enough, there is not many bell makers in the UK," he said.

Deputy Mayor of Helston Nicola Boase said councillors knew they had to get the bell fixed no matter the cost.

"The beat of the drum goes with the first strike of the bell for each of the dances," she said.

"There are not many places in this country who work on bells."

Father Paul Andrew christened the new bell and named it Flora

The bell was christened by Father Paul Andrew from St Mary's Catholic Church in Helston.

He said of the bell: "We decided we would give it a name and call it Flora as it seems appropriate."