Lichfield Festival staff have become a team of clock-watchers – but we can assure folks that they are not sneaking off half-an-hour before time!
A very important job has been added to the team’s substantial workload since they moved to their new HQ in Donegal House.
They are now responsible for winding the town clock.
Lichfield Mayor, Norma Bacon, welcomed the Lichfield Festival team to their new office in Donegal House, now owned by the City Council, and reminded them that part of the terms of the lease involved them being responsible for winding the clock.
The clock’s mechanism is in the room that they occupy and therefore the winding duties come with the territory.
The clock has been on the building since 1928 when it was presented to the Council by the Swinfen Broun family.
Festival chairman Tony Bateman said: “We are very grateful to the City Council for leasing the office to us and to the Mayor for performing the official opening of the new premises.
“We assure Cllr Bacon that, having received suitable training and health and safety advice, the clock winding is in good hands.
“Not only does the Festival give the residents of Lichfield and beyond a very good time during Festival week but we now are also responsible for giving them the right time!”
The festival commences on July 4 and provides a varied, exciting programme in the Cathedral, the Lichfield Garrick and a variety of other venues through to July 13. Tickets can be booked and further information obtained through the festival website or by ringing the office at 01543 306270.
