rhovenden@thekmgroup.co.uk

Church bells, which have been silent for two-years since a volunteer worker fell through the tower floor, rang out again this weekend.

Eight bells were reinstalled in the tower of St Botolph’s Church, The Hill, Northfleet.

The 250-year-old bells rang out again at about 4pm on Saturday (June 4).

The bells, one weighing almost a tonne, stopped being used in July 2009 when a volunteer fell 20ft through the rafters, seriously injuring his right leg.

A health and safety notice meant the bells could not be rung until repairs were made.

But now, two years on, the bells have been restored at the Whitechapel Bell Foundry and returned to St Botolph’s.

Derek Wilkinson, 75, captain of the bells, said: "It is wonderful that we can enjoy bell ringing and the sound of the bells once again.

"It’s taken a long time but we are finally here."

If you would like to try your hand at bell-ringing contact Mr Wilkinson on 01474 703948.