THE CHURCH CLOCK

I am so sorry that for the last few months I have not been able to give you the time of the day. I must apologise for that. I do notice you glancing up whenever you pass but there has been nothing that I have been able to do about it. It’s been out of my hands, so to speak.

The reason is that whenever something goes wrong in the church it is not just a matter of the PCC sending for a plumber, electrician or clock repairer etc.to get it fixed. There are not that many businesses about that deal with my kind of problem. The PCC have been dealing with two companies. The question has been whether a further repair was possible and if so, did it make economic sense. Failing that it would mean the purchase of a new Auto-Winder.

My good news is that the church’s PCC, at a meeting this week, decided not to go down the repair route. They are going to buy me a new automatic winding system that will cost upwards of £3,000. Adding this to the cost of a new heating system and other demands, their finances will be left in a parlous condition. The Parish Council, always supportive, have been kept informed throughout this process. It is hoped that, with finances permitting, they may be able to help with the cost.

At the time this goes to press I cannot say when I will be up and running again but at least it shouldn’t be for much longer. I cannot wait for the time when I will be right for you all day instead of just twice a day.

St Helen’s Church Clock