THE EXPERTS behind the restoration of Ruthin Town Clock will meet the public next week to explain the challenges of preserving this historic landmark for future generations.

At a public meeting at 3pm on Wednesday, November 20 in the Old Courthouse, conservation architect Elinor Gray-Williams and Rory Moore of R Moore Building Conservation will detail the methods they are using - and the obstacles they face - in returning the Grade Two Listed Peers Memorial Clock to its former glory.

The event has been organised by Chair of the Restoration committee Fiona Gale.

After years in need of urgent repair, in 2020 a committee of local volunteers was formed to carry out restorative works to the clock.

For the last few weeks the clock has been covered by scaffolding and tarpaulins as work gets underway.

"Our sole intention is to restore the clock to as close as possible to its condition when it was built – not to change the clock in any way," said Fiona.

"This event will share the details of how the restoration work was planned and the issues found on site by Rory and his team once work began."

The committee secured funding for the project from Clocaenog Windfarm Fund, Denbighshire County Council and Ruthin Town Council.

Elinor Gray-Williams was appointed as conservation architect, based on her extensive knowledge and experience. She had previously worked on restoration projects including Portmeirion, Caernarfon's town walls, the buildings of the Bardsey Island Trust and Bangor Diocese and she has completed a Conservation Management Plan for the mediaeval walls at Ruthin Castle. 

The town clock was built in 1883 as a memorial to Joseph Peers – Clerk of the Peace in Denbighshire for over 50 years in the mid-19th century. It was designed by prominent Chester architect John Douglas and is owned by Denbighshire County Council.

Additional funding for the clock restoration project came from the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund, which also supported similar work at St Peter's Church, the Old Gaol, Nantclwyd y Dre and the proposed changes to St Peter's Square. 

"The committee would encourage people to attend this event, so they can form their own opinion and see exactly what is being done," said clock committee member Cllr Anne Roberts. "This project will ensure the clock remains in good condition for decades to come."