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We are delighted to report that the Faculty enabling work to be carried out to restore the clock dial has been granted by the Diocese. However, before this can happen we need to raise the funds for the work to proceed. An essential element of the grant application process is being able to show community support, financial and, just as importantly, the views and opinions of residents confirming the value of the clock to the community.
Good news: We are extremely grateful for the support shown for this project and to the individuals and Trusts who have generously provided the funding to enable the order to be placed and the project to proceed.
Update: You may have noticed that the clock dial has been removed! This happened during the morning of 18th June. Click menu link on left to view the photos (Removing the dial)
Response to request on Facebook for thoughts on the clock.
We have lived in Barnham for over 30 years. During the 1990's, the clock was being wound by David Heading. After carrying out that role for over 10 years, David decided it was time to retire but was struggling to find someone to replace him. This meant that there was a real risk that the clock would no longer function.
We have a smallholding in the village, within earshot of the clock chime. Whilst working in the fields or garden it was one of life's little pleasures, and a source of comfort, to hear the clock chime. It also enables me to keep track of the time as I never wear a watch or carry a phone when working (I've broken too many in the past).
So,in 2000 I decided to take over clock winding duties from David. It's a fine clock and an excellent timekeeper. In 2017 I passed on the clockwinder role to Simon Ford, who continues to wind the clock today. Inscribed on the wooden case that encloses the clock workings are the names of every clock winder, along with their years of service, since the clock was installed in 1917.
In an ever changing world, the clock provides continuity. Through two world wars. More recently through Covid, when we were all "locked down", the clock kept ticking and provided an hourly reminder of the time - and normality. It "adds" something to the village in the same way that the church, the village sign, or even hanging baskets do.
If the clock face is not restored then it will gradually rot (it's made of wood) and will become a danger to users of the church and churchyard. This will mean that, at some point, money would have to be spent making it safe and filling the void that it occupies. Surely better to put that money towards restoring the clock face and ensuring that the clock continues to provide that continuity for another 100+ years ?
KJ
Barnham Resident
25th November 2023
The history of the present church clock is that it replaced that which was given to the church in 1872 by the then rector, the Revd. R. Sutton: this original clock is preserved at in the Euston estate bygones collection.
No face came to Euston on the original clock. The present clock on the church tower has a face that dates from 1917 and may have replaced the original face that sadly did not survive the 1872 mechanism that was installed.
I am sorry not to help you further, sadly as you may know all the Euston archives were lost in a terrible fire that destroyed two wings of Euston Hall in 1902.
May I wish the Barnham parish Council all the very best luck in obtaining the grant and it will be good to see the fully restored clock on the church tower.
My kindest regards
EJW 5th February 2024
I am writing in support of the plan to refurbish the Clock at St Gregory’s Church Barnham.
Extract from letter:
Over the years the community of has done an amazing job in raising funds for the upkeep, and from time to time, repair of St Gregory’s. The clock, within the tower is a fine piece of historic workmanship which does now look sadly decaying. I have been thinking for some time that it would be wonderful to see it restored to former glory and I was delighted to hear that the work had been assessed with a view to hopefully getting it repaired.
As you know my mother passed away recently. She enjoyed to the end that she could see the Church tower from her bedroom window.
Best wishes
TR
13th February 2024
Barnham Clock - A history of the Clock at St Gregory's Church, Barnham, Suffolk click on image to read
Dear Parish Council, We’d like to show our support for the refurbishment of our village clock.
The church and clock are at the heart of village life here in Barnham. The refurbishment will keep the clock in good working order for many generations to come.
Regards,
CB & MB
Residents 1st February 2024
Response to item in The Link
Myself and wife would be in full support of the clock refurbishment. The clock is a central part of the village, the “heart" if you like, and as such, appearing in a rundown state, we think reflects on us.
We believe that some other funds have been spent on the Church, so it would seem a good idea to finish what has been started. We don’t think that much has been done to clock for many years, so some investment now, before it’s too late, would preserve it for future generations and be cheaper in the long run. We would both be fully supportive in any fund raising ideas that could be put forward to help the project.
Kind Regards
SF & SS
Residents 1st February 2024