Four towers in West Dorset are currently undergoing work with contributions from the Guild’s Bell Restoration fund (LEBRF).
Powerstock bells are now back in the tower after going away to Taylor’s for refurbishment and tuning. The total cost of the work has been £53,000 of which the LEBRF has contributed £10,600.
Frampton bells have now left the village to go to Taylor’s where they will get new headstocks and tuning before being refitted into the strengthened 17th century oak frame. This refurbishment will cost £70,000, the LEBRF providing £14,200 of the cost. Frampton is actually in the Dorchester branch but their Tower Captain, Gareth Down, rings with West Dorset ringers so it feels like a West Dorset tower!
Bridport are in the throes of fundraising for their refurbishment. The bells are in generally good condition so they don’t need to be taken out of the tower but they’ll need to be dismantled as all their bearings need to be taken to the bellfounders (again, Taylors) are going to be refurbished. Total cost £17,000, LEBRF grant of £3,600.
Shipton Gorge bells are to undergo some general maintenance and improvements work by Nicholson’s at a total cost of £9,000 with a n LEBRF grant of £1,800.
The LEBRF is supported by a contribution from Guild Subscriptions and the generosity of members through donations and legacies.
