For the bell project to be successful it is vital that we have the support of prestigious and established bell hangers. Of the three companies we approached about the project White’s of Appleton responded with the most comprehensive and thoughtful proposal and have a strong reputation with heavy bells.
Whites of Appleton are the oldest trading bellhangers in the UK and were established in 1824. They therefore have over 200 years experience in restoring, hanging and tuning church bells old and new.
They will manage the core of the project and their work will include:
- Dismantling the current structure – Remove the existing bells, fittings and frame from the church tower and transport the bells to their workshop for refurbishing.
- Refurbish the bells – Drill and repair the crowns of the bells; Re-tune and voice the bells to improve their sound; Install new clapper staples and headstocks; and make adjustments to the clappers for optimal striking
- Organise the casting of the three new bells – The two new trebles and the replacement for the current 3rd bell will be cast at the Royal Eijsbouts Foundry and Whites will tune the bells ready for hanging.
- Building the bell frame – Construct a new cast-iron frame for 10 bells using high quality materials and install the frame in the tower ensuring proper support and stability.
- Ringing Fittings – Design and install full-circle ringing fittings including headstocks, clappers, wheels, ropes, and other components
- Rehanging – Transport and install the bells, including the two additional bells, and fittings in the new frame, and set up the ropes and ensure proper operation by testing the bells with local ringers. They will also set up the old 3rd bell so it can be chimed.
The White’s element of the Wells Bells Project is likely to cost in the region of £220,000.