Chard's a chiming place (From Chard & Ilminster News)

Chard's a chiming place

11:51am Monday 22nd December 2008 in Chard By Richard Purdon

CHARD will be letting the bells ring out on Christmas day as the clock above the Guildhall is set to chime again.

Five District Councillors – Martin Wale, Dave Bulmer, Nigel Mermagen, Dan Shortland and Jenny Keaton – completed their work to restore the clock for the benefit of the town on Monday morning.

The restoration of the chiming mechanism marks the completion of the project first started by former Guildhall committee chairman, the late Cllr Jean Smith.

“We’re ringing out the old year and in with the new,” said Cllr Wale, “it’s just a shame that Jean Smith is no longer with us.”

Cllr Mermagen added: “It’s good that she was able to make one last contribution and help the clock being brought back to its former working glory.”

Cllr Bulmer said: “This should benefit the whole town as everyone keeps an eye on the time when they’re shopping.”

Town Clerk John Furze thanked the district councillors for their efforts on behalf of Chard Town Council, and also to clockmaker Peter Watkinson who carried out the restoration work.

To avoid disturbing nearby residents, the clock will not chime between 10pm and 7am.