Historic Isle of Wight clock believed lost is now on display

For generations, the clock was a familiar presence above the Wadham and Sons furnishers shop.

Its disappearance, following changes of use and renovation to the building, prompted local speculation, with many assuming it would never be seen again.

Now, Newport and Carisbrooke Heritage Society has confirmed what it describes as the return of the original 'Wadham’s Clock' to the town.

From left: Matthew Price, who restored the clock, Viv Nobbs, who rescued the clock, and Wadham & Sons Ltd descendant, Michael Wadham. (Image: Newport & Carisbrooke Heritage Society)

While the timepiece has not been rehung on its former St James’s Square home, it is once again available for the public to see at the Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council building, at 64 High Street, opposite Correo Lounge.

The venue also operates as a base for the heritage society’s exhibitions and research activities.

According to the society, the clock survived thanks to the intervention of Island resident Viv Nobbs, who acted during renovation work on the Wadham’s premises, to ensure the much-loved object was not discarded.

She rescued and safeguarded the clock, until arrangements could be made for its eventual return.

Restoration work, carried out by Matthew Price, has since allowed the mechanism, case and remaining original parts, to be stabilised and presented in a way that is both accessible and informative.

The new display features the clock, alongside a number of its original components, as well as photographs and information panels detailing its history.

The restored Wadham's clock, now on display (Image: David Ralph)

A descendant of the family-run Wadham's firm, Michael Wadham, made a special visit to the Island for the recent unveiling of the restored clock.

Visitors can gain an understanding — not only of its role as a shop front attraction in St James’s Square, but also of the circumstances that allowed it to survive and be preserved for future generations.

The heritage society has formally thanked all those who contributed to the project, including Viv for saving the clock, Matthew for his restoration work, and supporters, such as John Farthing, Indigo Graphics and the Island Photo Community Hub.

Members of the public are invited to visit the High Street facility to view the exhibition, which highlights the clock as a significant element of Newport’s commercial and visual heritage, rather than as a functioning timepiece.