The clock and its designer Andy Plant WORK to erect a £200,000 stainless steel clock in the heart of Workington has nearly finished.

The switch-on will take place during a day of celebration and free entertainment from 11am to 4pm. The mechanical clock is an interactive installation, with a moving 15 foot arm on granite paving.

It was designed by artist Andy Plant, who drew his inspiration from local elements including the steel industry.

Another specialist artist, Matt Wand, created the clock’s chimes, which will use recordings from interviews with local people, set to music performed by the Stainburn School steel band, Dearham Brass Band and the artist.

The seating in the new space has been made by the Lillyhall firm Alan Dawson Associates.

The installation is part of a £2.74 million series of schemes funded by a grant from the Northwest Development Agency and organised by Workington Public Art Consultancy.

The clock has been described by Allerdale Council leader Jim Musgrave as “our equivalent to the London Eye.”

Rob Rimmer, Workington Regeneration manager, said: “Apart from a working clock, it is a huge piece of fun. Look through the eye holes and you get special views. Sit on the benches, which are stunning, and you will hear on the hour local voices speaking local dialect.”