Advice & Guidance
Bells and Clocks
Bells and Bell Frames: The bell frame is a working instrument with a large number of moving parts that require regular maintenance. Although the daily care of bells and bell frames may be carried out by a competent bell ringer it is important that they have the appropriate level of knowledge and skill. It is advisable to discuss the care and maintenance of the bells and bell frame with your tower captain to establish a sensible routine.
Action point: Works to the bells and bell frame should be recorded in your logbook.
The Central Council of Church Bell Ringers
(CCCBR) provides helpful advice on all aspects of bell ringing as
well as
detailed information relating to the care and maintenance of bells and
bell
frames.
The CCCBR also publishes a number of technical guides and pamphlets which can be obtained directly from the CCCBR website.
Action Point: Ask your tower captain to check that the bell chamber, bell frame and bells are in a good condition and working satisfactorily. Consider preparing and implementing a maintenance plan for the bells and bell frame.
Clocks: Mechanical clocks were first developed around 1275 to regulate the service times in monastic institutions. They were attended by a monk who would ring a bell to summon his brothers when the alarm sounded.
Over time these clocks became larger, enabling them to strike a bell hung in a tower directly. Such ‘turret clocks' were subsequently fitted in churches, where they regulated the lives of local people and are still in use today.
In terms of their ongoing care it is
advisable for a single person to be responsible for the routine
maintenance of
the turret clock, even though a rota of people may wind it. This person
should have some mechanical
knowledge and should be able to carry out the necessary safety checks as
well
as attending to the lubrication of the moving parts and the removal of
dirt and
surplus oil.
They should also be able to regulate the clock to ensure it keeps the correct time - all other work is the preserve of the specialist craftsperson. Advice on the care of turret clocks can be found on Chris Mackay's website.
Action Point: Confirm that the appropriate safety checks for the clock, weight lines and pulleys have been carried out. Consider preparing and implementing a maintenance plan for the turret clock.
Further information
- CCCBR Health and Safety in Bell Towers: A Guide to Good Practice
- Church Buildings Council Turret Clock Guidance Note
- Antiquarian Horological Society Turret Clock Group
- The Turret Clock Keeper’s Handbook
© SPAB 2010
