Ahead of the revival of St Andrew's church bells, a call for volunteers has been issued - and there's a free event to teach just that.

The Compton Dundon Bell Appeal is close to reaching its necessary funding target for restoration work.

The bells, silent since 1935, will soon reverberate across the local landscape signalling both happy and sombre occasions.

Restorative efforts will increase the present bell count from five to six and will require volunteer assistance for their operation.

The training can proceed concurrent with the refurbishment work at nearby locations.

A talk detailing the process will be given by Geoff Walker at the church on Saturday, March 16 at 10.30am.

Somerset County Gazette: A talk detailing the process will be given by Geoff Walker at the church on Saturday, March 16

Ringing is an engaging activity that offers friendship opportunities, community involvement, and the preservation of a historical craft.

The engagement allows for the maintenance of a community asset while upholding a shared heritage.

Learning the technique or returning to it after a hiatus, will aid continuation of a longstanding tradition.

The village of Compton Dundon held a special place in this craft as it was home to a bell foundry run by the Austen father-son duo, both named Robert.

The foundry produced bells for the local church and neighbouring Somerset villages - Aller, Beercrocombe, Castle Carey, Martock, and Somerton.

Two of the soon-to-be restored bells bear the dates 1630 and 1668 along with the names of the founders, Robert Austen Senior and Junior.

These historical pieces will resume their sonorous toll across the surrounding countryside.