Home / Education / Caretaker's Labour of Love Revives Historic School Clock
Caretaker's Labour of Love Revives Historic School Clock
20 Sep
Summary
- Caretaker restored the 1889 clock mechanism over 140 hours.
- The clocktower, silent for decades, now chimes again.
- Restoration project received over £2,100 in public donations.
The historic clocktower at Ripon Grammar School has resumed its chiming after a remarkable restoration effort. Caretaker Matthew Buller dedicated 140 hours to bringing the 1889 clock mechanism back to full working order, a project he undertook as a "labour of love." This effort has been widely celebrated by students and the local community, with many expressing their joy at hearing the iconic landmark chime again.
The painstaking work involved dismantling, cleaning, and restoring the intricate gears and pulley system. Brass components were submerged in ammonia and polished, while scaffolding was erected to access and repair the bells. A new 5mm steel cable now supports the 368kg weights that power the clock, which is believed to have last worked reliably 40 to 50 years ago.
The successful restoration has also garnered attention from a TV production company documenting the project. Furthermore, a public appeal for funds exceeded its target, raising over £2,100. These additional funds will support essential elements like a weight chute, sand cushion, lighting, and future maintenance for the cherished clocktower.
