The clock that makes Mitcham tick has been restored to its former glory as part of a multi-million pound renovation of the town centre.

Mitcham Clock Tower, which was first unveiled in 1898 to mark Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee, underwent restoration by specialist clock makers and engineers.

After being moved around the town - to an area alongside the Kings Arms pub in 1993 and 55 metres to the west of Upper Green East last year - it was relocated to Mitcham town centre without its clock face in August this year.

Its clock face was renovated separately by Bletchingley clock makers Gillett & Johnson.

The restored clock tower now includes a drinking fountain at the base, electric lanterns to illuminate the clock face, and a new weather vane.

'It's part of what makes Mitcham Mitcham' - Clock tower returns to town centre after restoration work

Mitcham's clock tower gets a facelift

Wimbledon Times:

Supporters of the clock gathered to welcome its return 

Perhaps most importantly, it now tells the correct time.

Welcoming the return of Mitcham’s iconic Clock Tower, councillor Peter Walker, of Fair Green ward, said: "All the residents of Mitcham are delighted to see this grand old friend return and particularly as for the first time in many years it is now in full working order.

"As well as now telling the time correctly, the drinking fountain at its base works, and the clock face will be illuminated in the evening.

"The clock tower, which was originally unveiled at Fair Green in 1898 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, is iconic for Mitcham. 

"Its return heralds the first stage in the revival of Mitcham over the coming months as the refurbishment of the area is completed."

Merton Council also plans to upgrade the town’s market square with new cafes, install a bus lane and plant new trees as part of the £6.2m Rediscover Mitcham project.