A long-serving bellringer for more than half a century, Eric Brunger, has died after a long illness aged 74.

As technical adviser to the Norwich Diocesan Association of Ringers, he was one of the mainstays for many years and particularly enjoyed ringing at towers with eight bells.

He was a member of the band at St Andrew and St Peter, Blofield, which had eight bells, and was also a regular at St Mary's Church, Martham.

Born in Kent, where he took up ringing at the age of 16, he became a chartered mechanical engineer.

He worked for the Ministry of Defence at a number of locations around the country and latterly in London until his declining health forced his early retirement.

He shared his love of ringing with his wife, Jenny, and they were married for just one week short of their 52nd anniversary. They had moved to Norfolk in 1987, partly to enjoy sailing on the Broads. But the challenge of sailing and especially maintaining a wooden Broads cruiser eventually became too much of a burden.

With his engineering background, his technical knowledge was especially appreciated as a branch adviser in the NDA's eastern district.

He also represented the county on the Central Council of Church Bell Ringers for a number of years.

Donations can be made to the NDA's belfry repair fund, either at the service or to the funeral directors, Allcock Family Funeral Services, City Road, Norwich NR1 2HD.

A memorial service will be held at St Helen's Church, Ranworth, tomorrow at 12.30pm.

He leaves a widow, Jenny, two sons, Robert and David, two grandsons and two grand- daughters.