A piece of cinematic history has returned home.
The original Brief Encounter clock, famously featured in the 1945 film, is back on display at Carnforth Railway Station 80 years after the movie’s release.
First installed in December 1895 and manufactured by Joyce of Whitchurch, Shropshire, the clock has been fully restored after its removal in August 2020 for restoration and to have its fixings remade.
Phil James, Network Rail’s route director, said: "We are absolutely thrilled to be welcoming the original Brief Encounter clock back to its rightful place in Carnforth station.
"This is a real tourist attraction for people visiting the area and I am very grateful to Mike Smith, the owner of the clock, for allowing us to have the clock back in the station."
The clock is owned by Mike Smith, whose father, Alan, was instrumental in its restoration and preservation.
Mr Smith said: "I am so pleased to be here today, my father worked really hard to see this clock restored to its rightful place once again here on the platform and it is an honour to be able to represent him.
"Today is testament to the fact that common sense, coupled with a willingness to overcome challenges, has prevailed.
"Everyone involved has done a terrific job of getting this true icon back to where it belongs."
READ MORE:
- Review: Morecambe and Wise live again in Eric and Ern at the Lowry
- Ribble Valley kitchen showroom wins top UK retailer industry award
- Emotional reunion as scout leader living with dementia to lead walk with old friend
The clock, long thought lost after the station’s decline in the 1980s, was rediscovered by Alan Smith at a dealer’s in Twickenham, complete with its original mechanisms.
He funded its restoration and saw it rehung at Carnforth in July 2002.
Owain Roberts, Northern’s stakeholder manager for the North West, said: "We’re delighted the iconic clock from Brief Encounter has returned to its home at Carnforth station."
Share