St Leonard's Church

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St Leonard’s is a Norman foundation grade two starred listed building and the home or the national monument to the Lady Constantia, whose effigy is one of the few of that age dedicated entirely to a woman and child.

Several traditions surround this lady, including the ancient Bellrope Charity, the intention of which, 800 years later is still being fulfilled. This is to ring the curfew bell for three weeks either side of Christmas.
The story has it that the Lady Constantia, as a child was lost in the surrounding  Sherwood Forest (as it was then. The forest has receded by many miles now.) The curfew bell sounded, and she found her way home by walking towards it.

She later left several pieces of land, the rent from which still endows the charity, paying for the bell ringer in winter, and any expenditure the trustees identify in maintains the bells or the tower in which they hang.

Inland Revenue
Number
XR36763

The church has recently undergone major works, including the augmentation of the peal to eight from five bells. The charity made a grant to the church accordingly.

             

 

Brass Band Concert

With Ashover Brass Band

7pm Thursday 22nd July

In the Glapwell Centre

Tickets £6

                                                                    Inc Refreshments