More about bell repairs

As I have started this topic, here are a few more thoughts on the subject.

Having determined that there is a major problem in getting the bells at Belchamp Walter Church back to a working condition, it may well be a question of preservation rather than resoration. The distinction between the two is not well understood in the authors opinion.

The Church Buildings Council (CBC)

The CBC has made various observations regarding bell repairs and restoration. These need to be uderstood before any further action is taken regarding the bells at Belchamp Walter.

Replacing/Removal Canons

This was a subject that I was totally unaware before I did some research. The question only really comes into consideration when the issue is viewed in the light of conservation or repair. The bells can, I think, be considered of "Historical Relevance". As such, they should be preserved and not damaged further.

The observation from the CBC makes a distinction between what should be done on bells cast after 1700 (but doesn't seem to have a "modern" later date), the bells at Belchamp Walter were cast from 1712 and 1782.

Incised or Embossed

When casting bells the inscriptions are more likely to be embossed on the surface of the bell. This is probably due to the method of casting. The incision of an inscription would have to be done after the bell had been cast, thus affecting its tuning.

DAC - Diocesan Advisory Committee for the Care of Churches

This committe needs to be consulted.

The information sheet in the Church says:

According to the inscriptions the bells at Belchamp Walter were cast from 1712 and 1782