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<DIV><SPAN class=500341817-11052006><FONT size=2>> As for the more relevant
question to this group, did it ever have a ring of bells - did it ever have a
tower? It seems unlikely. The present church was completed in 1537,
to replace one which was pulled down in 1525. The present bellcote dates
from 1848.</FONT></SPAN></DIV>
<DIV><SPAN class=500341817-11052006><FONT size=2></FONT></SPAN> </DIV>
<DIV><SPAN class=500341817-11052006><FONT size=2>No, it's never had a tower -
there were several previous incarnations of the belcote. The present occupant of
said cote is a product of Messrs Warner, originally hung for ringing but now
equipped with only a headstock and clapper. A few years ago it was rehung on a
new stock and quarter-turned under the instruction of the architect. Alas, he
didn't realise that the clapper on a cast in staple would only swing one
way...</FONT></SPAN></DIV>
<DIV><SPAN class=500341817-11052006><FONT size=2></FONT></SPAN> </DIV>
<DIV><SPAN class=500341817-11052006><FONT size=2>The name of the church is
derived from the 'Berefridus', a small belfry formerly constructed on the
apex of the gable of the Minster's south transept (St Muchael-le-Belfrey is
immediately to the south of the Minster). The Berefridus contained the Minster's
clock and prayer bells.</FONT></SPAN></DIV>
<DIV><SPAN class=500341817-11052006><FONT size=2></FONT></SPAN> </DIV>
<DIV><FONT size=2>There's a Grope Lane in Shrewsbury, also. Along with York's
Grape Lane, the alleged derivation is from the trade which was practiced
there.</FONT></DIV>
<DIV><FONT size=2></FONT> </DIV>
<DIV>> Given its proximity to Grape Lane, was St Michael-le-Belfrey ever
known as St Michael's, Gropecunt Lane?</DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV><FONT size=2>No - The church doesn't border on Grape Lane.
</FONT><BR><BR>> If so, it makes you wonder what the present
congregation might think about it? And did it used to have a ring of
bells? Alas the York page has gone the same way as the name Gropecunt.</DIV>
<DIV> </DIV>
<DIV><FONT size=2>Given that St Michael le Belfrey is notable for its projector
screens, electric guitars and baptisms in an inflatable paddling pool, I rather
doubt if they'd be too impressed.</FONT></DIV>
<DIV><FONT size=2></FONT> </DIV>
<DIV><FONT size=2>David</FONT></DIV></BODY></HTML>