The Clock Tower Affair

<p><span>'The Clock Tower Affair' consists of a study of 254 years of Steyning Clock Tower history from 1771 until 2025 from the construction of the 'Old Market House' until the present day dispute over its ownership. The detailed record of events is presented in chronological order so that those events can be more clearly understood against a backdrop of the 'rotten borough' of Steyning challenges to a duel the original cantilevered clock Poor Law Riots the destruction of the historic Michelgrove House Poiney 'The Improver' the Town Clock Committee the Reverend Thomas Medland the 'King of Wiston' a clock tower under siege journalistic humour at its best the formation of the Steyning Parish Council fire above the fire station workers falling through ceilings and off roofs disappearing deeds two World Wars a notable parish clerk Mrs Matthews the clock-winder a runaway chime collective memory loss and memory regained search for the 'Holy Grail' threats to instigate defamation proceedings predisposed or predetermined official accusations of 'misinformation' the final piece in the jigsaw puzzle and vindication. Will the 'inhabitants of Steyning' be reaffirmed as the rightful and lawful owners of the Steyning Clock Tower? 'Rotten borough' no more? Only time will tell.</span></p><p></p><p><span>Whatever else happens it is hoped that 'The Clock Tower Affair' will provide a definitive record for residents and scholars alike of the facts as and when they occurred in the voices of that time. New evidence will no doubt emerge in the future to build upon what is recorded here but hopefully the iconic landmark of the Steyning Clock Tower will remain in place for future generations infuriating some giving great pleasure to most.</span></p>