Bell foundry faces administration

The firm can trace its history back to the 14th Century

Workers at a historic Leicestershire bell foundry are waiting to hear about their future after the company called in administrators.

Taylors, Eayre and Smith Ltd on Freehold Street, Loughborough, has confirmed it has financial difficulties and is now looking for a buyer.

The foundry has been in the town since 1839 and has cast bells worldwide.

Managers said the firm would continue trading, but no guarantees have been given to the 26 employees.

Local councillor Jewel Miah feared if the firm was forced to close it would hurt the area.

"We have grown up with it, it has always been there and it is really good to see people going to work in the foundry and also visit the museum there.

"So it would be a shame to lose that draw for the public and lose that part of the community," he said.

The firm, which traces its history back to the 14th Century, cast the largest bell in the UK - the Great Paul at St Paul's Cathedral in London - in 1881.

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The bells tolls for a Leicestershire foundry