Time for a change... restored Leeds clock gets new lease of life

Oakwood Clock is now back at the southern edge of Roundhay Park – where it had stood since 1912 – having been given a new lease of life after a two-year fundraising campaign by Oakwood Traders’ and Residents’ Association (OTRA).

The landmark was removed in January when specialist tradesmen at Rhodes Engineering in Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire, began the painstaking task of dismantling the clock into 64 pieces which were shot-blasted, re-painted and repaired. The decorative unicorns, owl and compass have now also been gilded in 24.5 carat gold in the £270,000 project.

Iain Macniven, of OTRA committee, said he was delighted with the results: “It’s absolutely tremendous. The way it’s been done I think has been fantastic. I think it may well become somewhere people come to have a look – a sightseeing thing, because it’s quite stunning now.

“It’s a great addition to the area and it’s a nice boost. It’s been hard work and quite intensive fundraising but it’s a great feeling of achievement.”