And finally… rock around the clock

A big hand, and indeed a little hand, for clock specialist Smith of Derby, which has restored and generally jazzed up the historic feature at Hull’s Maritime Museum.

Not only has the clock on the venue’s south-facing wall been thoroughly cleaned and serviced, the contractor has installed a new automated winding system in a project funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

There’s a lot of talk these days about automation taking jobs away, but this clock has been wound by hand every seven days for 150 years, which in this day and age feels like too much of a slog for anyone, frankly.

Smith of Derby also worked on the new Time Ball at Hull’s Guildhall, and was engaged for the museum job by main contractor Simpson of York, which is closing in on the finish line on the job at large.

Gillian Osgerby, Hull City Council’s programme director for Hull Maritime, said: “It’s great see the clock get a new lease of life, thanks to National Lottery players.

“The clock is a recognised focal point of the exterior of the building and this new modern feature will ensure it keeps accurate time for residents and visitors.

“For 150 years, the clock on the old Dock Offices has kept time for the city, overlooking the historic Princes Dock where ships came and went through Hull’s Town Dock system.”