Ilminster landmark commemorates Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee

The Ilminster Rotary Club has recently been at work to install a suitable clock on Silver Street to pay tribute to the late queen.

The clock will be officially unveiled at noon on Saturday, February 17.

The rotary club said “the clock is only the latest in a long history of projects to support a very remarkable town”.

A message from the group said: “There is a new landmark in the middle of Ilminster.

“Just stand in Silver Street and look east or in East Street looking the other way and you will see a new town clock with its plaque recording Queen Victoria’s stop-over as a baby and a board commemorating Ilminster’s part in the attempt of the Duke of Monmouth to seize the throne.

“Until now, however, has not had anything to acknowledge the extraordinary service and dedication of our late queen, Elizabeth II.

“Ilminster Rotary Club decided that she should be honoured and, thanks to legacies from two former members, John Storey and Peter Smith, it had some money to buy a suitable clock.

“The owners of ‘The Key’ comprising ‘Retail Therapy’ and the flats above have generously agreed to have the clock on their wall.

“Three local firms, Bradford & Sons Ltd, Knights Electricals and P H Hardwill Ltd have equally generously worked together to get it mounted and ready to switch on at noon on February 17.

“Whilst nothing to compare with the Queen’s service, the Rotary Club has also recently celebrated an anniversary of service to the community.

“It has been working to meet local needs and contributing funds to the relief of international disasters and eradication of disease for over 50 years.

“The clock is only the latest in a long history of projects to support a very remarkable town.

“We are looking for some new members to join us to help continue our good work for our community. If you would like more information, please contact us.”