The Bells of

St. Mary the Virgin, Bottesford, Leicestershire

Bottesford has a fine ring of 8 bells, the largest weighing over 22 cwt., and the oldest dating back to the 15th century.

No major work has been carried out on the bells since 1927. As the "go" of the bells has become increasingly difficult over the last few years, some maintenance work is now required, particularly:
  • The bearings on the 5th and tenor require cleaning and possible replacement as the seals are broken. At the same time the bearings on the other 6 bells will be examined.
  • Rope pulleys which have become badly grooved from the years of use will be replaced.
  • The clapper bushes need to be replaced. Those installed some 10 years ago expand too much in very hot weather, preventing the clappers on certain bells from swinging.
  • The frame requires some work to prevent rust especially under the feet.

Whilst the cost of this work can be covered in part by monies in the bell fund and support from church funds, there will be various fund-raising activities to ensure that this maintenance work can be completed.
"Some of the work" on the bells has now been done