BELL REPAIR FUND SECRETARY'S REPORT

2007 saw the completion of two major projects, both of which involved the Bell Repair Fund and considerable work by those who organised and managed the projects. Three bells were dedicated on January 13th at Youlgreave by Bishop Bob Beak. These bells were the two trebles and the sharp second of the ring of twelve. The eight bells at Hartington, the two trebles of which had been cast at Loughborough on February 21st, were dedicated on September 16th by Bishop Alastair Redfern. All the many ringers who were involved in all aspects of these projects are to be congratulated on the successful outcome of both of them.

During the year offers of grants were made to Burbage, New Whittington and Alvaston with the latter also being offered a loan so that the necessary work could be completed as soon as possible, thus avoiding any increase in cost while funds were being raised.

Plans are still being made for a major overhaul and remodelling of the installation at Alfreton, though no application for a grant has yet been received.

The project at Sandiacre continues to progress. It seems likely that the bells will be remodelled and hung lower in the tower so that the peal will be less heavy than at present so that the stresses on the tower will be reduced.

The ten tubular bells at Riddings are due to be taken out in January prior to being completely refurbished later in 2008.

If your parish has any concerns about its bells or their fittings, please contact our Bell Consultants, (addresses on page 6). They will be happy to inspect your bell installation, free of charge, and to give you a written report on your bells. If any recommended work costs in excess of £1,000, then please apply to the Bell Repair Fund Secretary for a grant and/or an interest free loan. Conditions and Rules of grants and loans are also available on request.

Pat Halls

The Bell Repair Fund Affiliation Scheme

This scheme enlists the financial support of Parochial Church Councils on a regular basis in carrying out the aims of the Fund. When the Fund was set up in the early sixties the annual subscription was fixed at £1. Nowadays subscription amounts are left to the generosity of individual PCCs. Currently 76 PCCs are affiliated, each paying an annual subscription varying from £3 to £50, most PCCs pay between £10 and £20. During the year each contributing PCC is sent a report on the Fund, plus a copy of the Association’s Annual Report.

Parochial Church Councils affiliated to the Bell Repair Fund 2007
The Association is grateful to the following PCCs for their continued support for the Bell Fund.