Arguments for and against reinstating historic bells at All Saints Church in Croxley Green will be heard by magistrates early next year.

Hourly chimes have not rung out across the village since September 26 when the church in The Green was served with a noise abatement notice by Three Rivers District Council.

The silencing of the church bells prompted widespread anger across the community as it emerged the action had been taken in response to a single complaint from a resident.

The notice only requires the bells not to sound during night time hours but the historic mechanism is such that it cannot be set hourly so has had to be switched off completely.

Reverend Miriam Mugan thanked residents for their ongoing support which has included dozens of letters of support to the church.

The hearing at Watford Magistrates’ Court has been scheduled for 10am on Tuesday February 26.