Brief Encounter clock made in Whitchurch returned to station

The iconic station clock from the 1945 film Brief Encounter, manufactured in Whitchurch and featured in the David Lean classic, has returned to Carnforth Railway Station after a full restoration.

Originally installed in December 1895 and built by Joyce of Whitchurch in Shropshire, the clock was removed in August 2020 for repairs and refurbishment. Its return coincides with the 80th anniversary of the film, which turned Carnforth station into a destination for film fans.

Phil James, route director at Network Rail, 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."

Mike Smith, whose father Alan played a key role in rescuing the clock in the 1980s after the station fell into disrepair, 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."

In the 1980s, the clock was feared lost until Alan Smith discovered its original workings, hands, faces, pendulum, and weights at a dealer in Twickenham.

He paid for a complete restoration, and the clock was first rehung at Carnforth in July 2002, remaining there until its removal in 2020 for this latest restoration.

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.

"It’s an important piece of local history and was a prominent feature at the station for years, with fans of the film travelling from far and wide to see it.

"They will be pleased to see the clock back in its rightful place and hopefully it will attract more visitors in the coming years."