The six bells in the tower of St Nicholas’ Church, Withernsea, have been silent throughout the building’s closure. A small stationery bell has been available to chime for special occasions and the tenor bell now strikes on the hours, since the War Memorial Clock was restored. ‘Proper’ full circle ringing has not been heard for 11 years.
On Saturday 22 February Mr Paul Franzen, Tower Captain at St Augustin’s Church in Hedon, checked the bell fittings to see if any repair work is necessary before they are rung in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of VE day in May. Sadly the wheels of three of the bells were found to have deteriorated due to lack of maintenance and to exposure to salt-laden wind.
Repair will involve stripping and reconstruction by professionals at a considerable cost, yet to be estimated. However, the wheels of the three heaviest bells are safe and have had their ropes fitted with the assistance of Peter and Matthew Cook under the watchful eye of Darrin Stevens, resident photographer and tea-brewer. The three bells are not easy to ring due to their weight, the heaviest being 13 cwt.
