An important chapter in the city's history was revived when the city's iconic bell and bell tower at Lyngby Old Cemetery were inaugurated on July 20.

– It has been two years since we started the project, and now we have reached the day where we can inaugurate the restored bell and bell tower. It is a big day, and it should be celebrated with a bang, says Søren Bangsø, who is the chairman of Nr. Lyngby Citizens' Association, which is the driving force behind the renovation project.

With help from foundations and significant local engagement, the citizens' association has managed to raise around a quarter of a million kroner for the extensive restoration of the historical monument – a project with deep roots in both the site's culture and nature and with great significance for the area.

– The bell and the bell tower have become a significant part of Nr. Lyngby's identity and history. It is one of the area's well-known tourist attractions located by the North Sea, and we believe it is important to preserve this landmark, which can be seen from all three access roads, says Søren Bangsø.

Historical landmark
The first bell for Lyngby Church, which was built in the late 1100s, was purchased in 1647. It was replaced in 1872 with another bell produced at a German steelworks.

After Lyngby Church was moved further inland in 1913, the bell tower remained at the original cemetery. But in 2017, alarm bells literally started to ring – the old tower was dangerously close to the edge of the cliff, where the sea erodes the landscape year by year.

The citizens' association therefore had it moved to the southeastern part of the cemetery and simultaneously took on the responsibility for maintenance and preservation.

– We are grateful for the support the project has received. We have gone through many instances to realize the project, and everywhere we have met great hospitality and goodwill – not least, the parish council of Lyngby Church has been a great help, says Søren Bangsø.

Before the renovation began, the tower's structure was in very poor condition and the ringing functions were out of order. Therefore, a detailed project was developed in collaboration with Bundgaard’s Carpenter and Joiner ApS and Danish Church Bell Technology A/S. The result is a new, functional bell with modern bearings – and a tower in solid and respectful historical execution.

– It has been exciting to be part of realizing the project, and now we have a landmark that is secured for many years to come, says Søren Bangsø, who is a former architect.

Inauguration with sound and newly established bell guild
The new bell tower was officially put into use in connection with the inauguration, where many gathered to celebrate the day.

– We think we have created a really nice program, including an inauguration speech by parish priest Gitte Lykke, a performance of a new bell quartet (note: show) by the local musician and Brønderslev Harmoniorkester, who entertained, says Søren Bangsø.

A special highlight was the presentation of the newly established Nr. Lyngby Klokkelaug, which consists of three local "bell ringers." They will ring the bell in accordance with the guidelines from the Ministry of Ecclesiastical Affairs, and it may very well become an event that attracts attention.

– The members of the bell ringing group have been equipped with hats and robes, which they wear when they ring the bell, says Søren Bangsø.

The funds for the renovation project come from the A.P. Møller Support Foundation, Sparekassen Danmark Fonden Vendsyssel, Hjørring Municipality (Matching Funds), Nord Energi Fonden, Fonden Sol og Strand by Margit og Kjeld, Super Brugsen Løkken, and Lions Løkken.