Restored bellready to ring out for Santa

A refurbishment project on the 18th century bell in Hotham Park House clock tower was finished in time for Christmas.

The centuries old bell has been refurbished by a specialist contractor.

The clock mechanism has also received a thorough overhaul. It was put back together just before Christmas to give it a much clearer ring.

The clock faces have received a makeover as part of the 30,000-plus scheme. New gold leaf has been added to give the clock tower a gleaming new look.

Colin Rogers, the services director for Arun District Council, said: 'The complete restoration of the clock tower is almost finished.

'We're delighted with the way this magnificent old building will look and sound as a result.

'The clock tower is an iconic figure in Hotham Park and a really important part of its heritage.

'So, we are extremely happy to give it the special care and attention it deserves.'

The clock was built in 1794 for Bognor's founder, Sir Richard Hotham.

It can be seen across much of the town.

The clock tower work was funded by 25,000 from the SITA Trust from the money it receives from the landfill waste tax.

A further 6,700 came from the Hotham Park Heritage Trust volunteers.

The refurbishment work also includes the replacement of the internal ladders, timber treatment work, roof repairs and restoration of the weathervane which tops the tower.

SITA Trust chairman John Leaver said: 'We are delighted to support this important landmark and hope that the improvements will help the clock tower keep time for the next 200 years.'

The restoration co-incides with the wider 2.2m Heritage Lottery Fund restoration project throughout Hotham Park.