The Bells

In 1844 the bells were increased from four to six in number. Some new pieces of frame were added but much older parts retained.

The bells were recast in 1976

Recently (2023) correspondence between Owen Needham and two bell foundries has come into the society’s possession. There are some interesting exchanges between the parties, in the days not so long ago, when letters were handwritten or typed and sent by post.

The first letter is from the Whitechapel Bell Foundry who inspected the bells in 1963 and gives some details of the history of the bells. The report concludes the bells and the bell frame are not in very good condition, to say the least. There are some interesting comments about the chiming apparatus and how someone caused the damage to three bells by using the apparatus whilst the bells were being rung. Remnants of the chiming apparatus are still to be found in the ringing chamber.

Two interesting facts are that the 1844 casting was by Thomas Hurry of Norwich, and that ‘about fifty years ago the peal was rehung with all new fittings by George Day of Eye.’ ‘About fifty years ago’ must have been during the major refurbishment of the church in 1911.

Some years passed and then Owen Needham started a correspondence with John Taylor and Co, of Loughborough. The ‘absolutely’ of’ absolutely necessary’ is underlined and set the tone for worrying about the cost.

A quick reply

The estimate arrives. A second estimate was supplied for the bells to be rehung in an all metal frame made for eight bells. Two new bells to be supplied.

Two years later, no doubt following protracted negotiations, things have moved on. The decision was made to continue with six bells fitted in the existing frame.

Many things to consider

A reminder of high inflation and unions demanding high wage increases in the 1970’s

One more step!

The visit to the foundry is arranged

Finally the bells arrive in Fincham. No wonder Owen Needham looks pleased! Only a small amount of his correspondence is shown. Endless letters, PCC meetings, getting a faculty and fund-raising over many years required perseverence and determination. Moreover letters show that he saved St. Martin’s over £500 by organising the taking down, transport of and re-installation of, the bells, a tribute to his engineering skills.

1976 –Rev Gordon Bennet looking on as Owen Needham manoeuvres re-cast bell. Also in photo are Mrs Bennet (back) Mrs Hodgson, churchwarden, and Mrs Needham (on right). The bells were dedicated on Whitsunday June 6th 1976 by the Bishop of Ely, The Rev. Edward Elien. The ringers were: -treble -Owen Needham 2nd- Sarah Harrison 3rd Claire Hodgson 4th Fiona Luckchant 5th -Frank Harrod 6th -Simon Needham

The churchwardens were George Thompson and Effa Hodgson

This is an article in the British Sugar News of December 1974 when Owen took the bells down. (The headline of the paper was, interestingly enough -THE TOUGHEST CAMPAIGN EVER!- a combination of a spring drought, Midsummer aphids and flooding during harvesting with very heavy rainfall later in autumn caused closure of factories at Felstead and Ely, the first time ever such action was taken)

This is by Owen Needham when all was completed.

THE PAIN

Finally a ‘begging’ letter from Ethel Wilding to seek more funds. An extra £800 had to be found and no doubt it was but, as ever, it shows how parishioners had to constantly raise more money!