Worshippers gathered for a historic ceremony at St Albans Abbey on Saturday as blessings were put on a new set of bells.

It is 500 years since a set of bells was last consecrated at the Abbey and the first time ever a set of 13 have been blessed together.

The new additions to the historic cathedral replace the 12 current bells, some of which date back to 1699.

On Saturday, the new bells were consecrated at a ceremony overseen by the bishop of the diocese and attended by hundreds of worshippers.

The chimes were washed, anointed with oil and covered with clouds of incense, marking the result of four years of planning and fund raising by members of the cathedral.

The replacements were sought because the previous bells, which were never designed to be heard together, did not resonate a good enough sound.

Sounding chimes at the cathedral dates back to the 11th century and it is hoped the new bells will ensure the tradition continues for much longer.

Dean of St Albans Dr Jeffrey John said it was extremely exciting to see the project come to fruition.

“Everyone at the abbey is profoundly grateful for the generous support of the bell donors and the key role played by the Cathedral Trust. The bells will provide a much improved peal and will be heard by countless people during their lifetime.”