Hopes for restoration of Shrigley clock for its 150th anniversary

Hopes for restoration of Shrigley clock for its 150th anniversary

8 July 2020

DETAILS of fresh efforts to restore a historic clock which was once the centrepiece of village life in Shrigley have been unveiled.

The iconic Martin Memorial clock, which had its bell and interior mechanism removed over three decades ago and placed in storage, celebrates its 150th anniversary next year.

To mark the occasion, Rowallane councillor Terry Andrews is hoping that Newry, Mourne and Down Council and the Housing Executive will join forces to help put the tick back in the famous clock.

He says it is sad to see the historic landmark falling into disrepair and hopes efforts to restore it will be successful to preserve it for generations to come.

Designed in 1871 by Timothy Hevey, the clock is constructed of brown stone in three layers, with the base surrounded by iron railings. Originally, there was an elaborate lamp at each corner and also a drinking fountain.

While there have been various meetings over many years to discuss the restoration of the clock, nothing ever happened, something Cllr Andrews hopes that he can help put right.

He says while money is tight for many organisations which had to deal with the coronavirus pandemic, he hopes the local council and housing officials will commit to helping restore the famous clock to provide a reminder to current generations of Shrigley’s industrial past.

The village was founded by the Martin family, who came from Pott Shrigley in Cheshire in 1842 and who owned the spinning factory in the village.

It was powered by water from the nearby Clea Lough and while the mill has long gone — it is reported to have employed 500 people at one time — the clock tower erected by the people of Shrigley in 1871 in honour of the Martin family remains.

Cllr Andrews believes that residents in Shrigley, Killyleagh and further afield would like to see the clock restored to its former glory and hopes he can secure agreement in principle for this to happen.

“We can’t allow the clock to deteriorate further,” he declared.  “It is an integral part of Shrigley’s history and it must be preserved.

“In the past it was suggested that a community garden could be developed alongside the clock and perhaps that is something worth pursuing.

“I think it is incumbent upon those who can help restore the clock to step forward and perhaps the restoration project is something that the Department for Communities could also lend its support to, given the clock’s historic link with the former mill located nearby.”

Cllr Andrews said that identifying funds to finance any restoration work was vital in moving forward, also highlighting the need for an agreed plan to maintain the clock.

“The Martin Memorial clock is at the heart of Shrigley’s history and culture and it must not be lost. It must be preserved and those who can help achieve this must come forward,” he continued.

“Given its history, a restored clock could become an attraction for visitors and people researching the area’s past.

“I hope that I can help harness interest and willingness in number of agencies to weigh in behind a successful regeneration project in the heart of Shrigley. Such a project will have the support of everyone.”