New home for historic Sunderland clock

The cube-shaped clock was presented to the city in 1972 to mark the 50th anniversary of Sunderland Rotary Club, and originally stood in Market Square.

It then spent many years in High Street West before being taken down during the recent improvement work, and has now taken pride of place in its new home just off Keel Square.

After being refurbished and repaired to full working order, it has been relocated to its new home outside the former Gilbridge Police Station which is currently being revamped into a £4million business centre.

Cabinet Secretary Councillor Mel Speding, said: "The Police Station was built in 1972, the same year that the clock was dedicated to the city to mark the 50th Anniversary of the Rotary Club.

"So the clock is very much in fitting with the character of the building and I'm delighted we have been able to restore the mechanism and give it a new lease of life in a prominent location."

Tony Everett from Sunderland Rotary Club, said: "It's good to know that the clock is now in a position where people can be aware not only of the time, but of the work for charitable causes that continue to be served by voluntary efforts from Rotarians and Friends of Rotary, notably the University of Sunderland and the City Council.

"Following its restoration we're looking forward to celebrating our centennial year in four years time with the clock still in working order."