The Abbey’s bells were out of action from the first week in January 2024 until 1 March 2024 while maintenance was carried out. Bells, like cars, need regular servicing, although the service interval for major work on bells is around 25 years!
The clappers were removed and taken to bellhangers Matthew Higby & Company Ltd in Somerset for comprehensive work. While in the works it was discovered that the largest clapper is made of SG steel rather than wrought iron, so could not be heat-treated and turned like the others. A replacement clapper has been made instead.
In the belfry the bell bearings on which the bells swing have had old grease cleaned out and replaced. The ball-races on these bearings are still in excellent condition after 56 years’ service.
The refurbished clappers were returned and fitted on 29 February and 1 March 2024, when all other outstanding work was completed.
We wish to express our thanks to the Wymondham Abbey Preservation Trust for funding this essential work.
