EP49 For Whom the Bell Tolls: A Gothic funeral tradition that keeps away evil spirits, plague, fairies and the Devil! Explore the mysteries of church bells on the Ghosts and Folklore of Wales podcast

Can church bells really protect your soul from evil spirits, fairies, trolls, plague, and the Devil himself? Bells have long been a familiar sight and sound at funerals. From the passing bell at the head of the procession to the church bells reverberating throughout the graveyard, we've come to expect their incessant ringing on such sombre occasions. But far from just being a means of breaking the silence at such sad times, there are also countless superstitions attached to these age-old traditions which could prove to be highly beneficial. Did you know, for example, that they could keep away such supernatural creatures as fairies, trolls, evil spirits and the Devil himself? For some answers - and a few more questions - join author Mark Rees (Ghosts of Wales) as he explores the folklore surrounding church bells on the Ghosts and Folklore of Wales podcast. He even sneaks in some folklore about stones, and how the "devil stone" was made by a bell-stealing demon!     What is the Ghosts & Folklore of Wales with Mark Rees podcast? In early 2020, Mark Rees launched the world’s first podcast dedicated to Welsh ghost stories, folklore, myths and legends. By combining his unique research and insights from many books and articles with long-lost tales from dusty old tomes, this weird and wonderful podcast takes a fascinating look at the country's countless curious subjects. New episodes are uploaded every Thursday and feature everything from real-life encounters with pesky poltergeists to fantastical beasts from the Mabinogion and the skulled-headed Christmas favourite herself, the Mari Lwyd. Be sure to subscribe, and for more details and to get in touch with Mark Rees, please visit: Mark Rees homepage Mark Rees on social media Books by Mark Rees Ghosts of Wales podcast