THIS year marks a quarter century since Penarth's prominent town clock was unveiled in the town centre.
Organised by Penarth Rotary Club with the support of then-town mayor Cllr Clive Williams MBE, the clock was erected on the roundabout at the head of Windsor Road to mark the 50th aniversary of the Rotary Club in 1987.
First suggested by club member Jack Robinson, and designed by fellow member and architect Jim Carter, the clock has become a central part of Penarth's identity.
Dr Alun Dudley, who was Rotary club chair in 1987, said that in light of some initial opposition to the idea, he hoped Penarth residents had now come to accept it.
"I'm proud that it is there to mark our 50th anniversary, and that it has become a focal point in the town," said the former GP of 30 years at Stanwell Health Centre.
"It rounded off a memorable half century in the life of the Rotary Club of Penarth.
"I always check the time on it is correct whenever I drive past!"
Sponsored by local businesses and members of the public, the clock was was handed over on Friday, June 26, 1987 by Cllr Clive Williams - who is still a member of the town council, and who said it was one of his most memorable duties as mayor.
"One of my first duties was to attend the 50 year anniversary of the Rotary at Cardiff Castle, and one of my most important was the small role I played in having the clock erected," he said.
"Some people were against the idea because they worried about where the Christmas Tree would go each year but I think everyone was pretty happy with the outcome.
"I'm confident the clock will remain well beyond many of our days in a town we all love.
"I would like to say thank you to the Rotary Club for organising it."
The clock was made by Joyce & Co clockmakers of Whitchurch, Shropshire.
It is maintained by Penarth Town Council.