Landmark Horsefair clock will return to Horsefair

Community group Horsefair and Proud, alongside local councillors, have long campaigned for the timepiece to be restored after it was removed by Highways workers in 1969.

Residents had originally hoped to restore the original clock, which had stood proudly outside The Old Peacock since 1912, however they were unable to find the historic clock in any storage or archive records and its whereabouts remain a mystery.

The Old Peacock in the Horsefair

The original clock was erected in honour of businessman and councillor Fred Oakes.

Last year, after raising in excess of £14,000 in donations from local residents, businesses, grants and councillor funding, Horsefair and Proud commissioned Smiths of Derby to create a bespoke replica of the pillar clock, which will finally be installed in its rightful place later this month.

Group chairman Colby Woodall said: "The clock has not only been missed by the Horsefair community but the whole town since its removal and it is remembered fondly by the older residents.

"It’s been a fantastic effort by the whole community to see this dream become a reality and it's evidence what can be achieved when everybody unites and pulls in the same direction.

"We have seen political parties of all colours coming together to help get this over the line and donations have come in from every faith group represented in the area, in addition to both large and small private giving.

"I am obviously delighted for the area, and it’s great to know its people are going to enjoy the clock very soon.

"I am also particularly pleased for Cllr Mary Rayner and Steve Walker, former resident and committee member, who worked so hard to try to locate and reinstate the original clock.

Horsefair and Proud members Dot Thomas, Ian Parkes, Colby Woodall and Spike Betterton stood at the site prepared for the new clock

"Steve kickstarted the project to get the replica clock designed and manufactured, and helped raise the required funds.

"I would like to thank Spike Betterton for his support while we have liaised with the highways project team over the last two years."

Mr Woodall added: “The Horsefair is an important gateway to the town centre and this installation in conjunction with the recent highway improvements will go a long way to revitalise the town."

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, there will not be a grand unveiling event for the clock, however Horsefair and Proud plans to organise a community event to celebrate its reinstatement once guidelines allow.