Church Bells in Trouble

During a recent full inspection of St Nicholas’ Church bells by specialist firm, Taylors of Loughborough, their engineer discovered that bell six has the beginnings of a bearing issue. Consequently its rope has been tied to prevent further use.

Taylors have explained that the bell will have to be lowered, the headstock removed and taken to them for a new bearing shaft to be fitted. Their quotation is for a sum of between £3,000 and £4,000 depending on work required. The church is considering how this can be funded.

As far as the village is concerned the bells will ring as usual for church services. Many churches have only four or five bells, but of course with some restrictions on what changes can be rung. We should still be OK for special occasions, weddings and state occasions, etc. However, they will not be so attractive to visiting bands of bell ringers who come quite regularly to St Nicholas’ and bring a lot of pleasure to many people in Great Wilbraham.