Clock project is ticking along

A project to get a village church clock working again has been officially launched.

Visitors at the launch of the Cowbit St Mary Clock project enjoyed a talk on the clock manufacturer J B Joyce, by horologists Steve and Darlah Thomas, and had a chance to view memorabilia and photographs covering the heritage of the clock and village life in the early 20th century. Over £100 was raised from an auction of clock-related items.

Dr Shirley Pugh reported that the initial preparatory work of installing the belfry floor and electrics for the automatic winder had taken place and that Time Assured were due to start work on the clock mechanism soon.

The launch is one of many community events planned during the project, culminating in the clock commemoration day towards the end of the year, when the committee would like to try to recreate the original event in 1907, when the clock was installed.

The project is being funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Cowbit’s South Holland district councillors, the Church Buildings Committee, Cowbit Parish Council, the Lincolnshire County Council Big Society Fund, the clock appeal and individual gift aiders.

Funds were also raised by running a number of dedicated community events including a recent race night, jointly organised by Cowbit Village Hall Committee and Cowbit PCC, and a Pop up Pub event organised by The Cowbit Amenities Group.

If you have any information about Cowbit in 1907, contact Shirley on 01406 380562 or email shirley.pugh@spmj.co.uk