The ancient custom of ‘Clipping the Tower’ of St John’s Church was revived today (Saturday) as the first event in the church’s Patronal Festival.
To the sound of bells, members of the multi-faith community, humanitarians and those interested in ancient ritals and heritage ringed the church after passing through a floral arch before holding hands to ‘clip’ or ‘embrace’ the building.
The circle then wound its way around the church before exiting through an archway made by Morris dancers’ staves.
According to an excerpt recorded by the Dean of Ealing in November 1889:
“At Wellington was held a charming custom called ‘Clipping the Tower’. Folks met in the churchyard and formed a ring around the church, advancing with arms linked. Opposite the church door, the circle broke up and the two people immediately next to each other became leaders, dancing towards the churchyard wall. Then back they came to the church door, where three loud shouts were given.”
The term “clipping” is derived from the Anglo-Saxon word “clyppan”, meaning “to clasp” or “embrace”.
Wellington Folk and Custom Society, working in partnership with St John’s Church organised the event which it hopes will become an annual tradition.
The ceremony was followed by Bootstrap Border Morris with refreshments in the church.
A training bell was also on display inside the church and people could have a taste of what it’s like to ring a bell.
A large number also took the opportunity to climb the 62 steps to the ringing chamber where they were able to chime an actual bell before climbing further up the tower to peek in at the bells themselves.
Tomorrow (Sunday), there will be a special 9.30am Communion service and, later in the afternoon at 5.30pm, the Patronal Festival will end with Ad Hoc Voices performing Festival Evensong.
Everyone is welcome to join the festival which is free.
