TICK-tock now there’s a clock.

Residents, town and city councillors, trustees and even the Mayor gathered for the unveiling of the new clock in Alresford bought by the town trust.

Around 50 people witnessed the official unveiling of the new - and only - clock in the town on the Swan Hotel on Friday (May 30) to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the Alresford town market.

Trustee Robin Atkins paid tribute to all the volunteers and help the trust had received.

“I’ve been a trustee for over nine years,” he said. “In that time we have raised around £120,000 and none of it would have been do-able if it were not for generous people. We decided for the 800th anniversary we would give something to the town.

“Pam Stevens, who organises the market as well as the bus service and the admin, is an irreplaceable person and she has done so much.”

Mr Atkins went on to thank the Mayor of Winchester Cllr Ernie Jeffs for his fundraising efforts that helped the town to purchase the old-style clock for £2,800, as well as Cllr Chris Pines and Steve Brine, Winchester and Chandler’s Ford MP.

A bouquet was presented to members of staff of the Swan Hotel, an orchid was given to Mr Brine and his wife, Susie, and Mrs Stevens received a memento from Liverpool Football Club for her contribution.

Mr Brine said: “Alresford is such a lovely place to shop and the market is a real part of that vibrancy once a week. The fact it has been there for 800 years is just mind-boggling and reminds me, that for all the debate and activity we see in the town of today, we’re just a brief stitch in time enjoying Alresford while we’re passing through.

“The new clock is great, it was a real privilege to be asked to unveil it and be part of the town’s long history.”