Good Directions was recently approached by Stafford Borough Council to manufacture and erect a public clock as part of a local regeneration scheme.

The 'Heroes Clock' as it has been called, is to pay tribute to the men and women of Stafford who have served their country in various conflicts across the globe.

The 16ft clock was unveiled by the mayor, who performed a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new timepiece. The ceremony coincided with the date when the only Stafford man to be given the Victoria Cross was awarded his medal, more than 150 years ago. A plaque to Charles Pye, who was born in Stafford in 1820 and won the VC for outstanding bravery when he was 37 years old, appears on the clock.

The four-faced, George Pillar Clock now takes pride of place in the town's Mill Street – a move that has been welcomed by local businesses in the area. The idea for the clock coming from local trader, Anthony Rogers, from Peter Rogers Photography.

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He said: "We wanted to provide a focal point for the street after the enhancement works had been completed. After talking to fellow traders we thought it would be good to dedicate it to the brave men and women of the town especially as Stafford has such a long and proud military tradition."

The clock is the final piece in the jigsaw of improvement works in Mill Street and it is expected the timepiece will become an attraction for visitors.

Councillor Doug Davis, cabinet member for planning and regeneration, said: "This is a fitting tribute to the brave men and women who have served their country around the world - often paying the ultimate price for their dedication. It is practical and memorable, and we are proud to be able to honour our service personnel in this way."

Alan Pye - a distant nephew of Charles Pye - said: "This was very exciting and I can't wait to tell other relatives of Charles Pye in Australia as well as in England about this. It is a fitting tribute - a really magnificent clock and plaque."

To see other examples of our clocks please visit www.exterior-clocks.co.uk or for our full range of products please visit our main website www.good-directions.co.uk or contact Tel: 01489 797773.