´óÏó´«Ã½

A town clock that has kept time in the birthplace of NHS founder Aneurin Bevan for 162 years has fallen victim to the coronavirus lockdown.

The clock in the heart of Tredegar, Blaenau Gwent, which dates to 1858, is not striking accurately on the hour.

The Derbyshire company that maintains the clock is unable to carry out repairs on having furloughed staff.

Tredegar council said it was "deeply disappointed".

It said it feared switching off the clock would cause further damage.

A "symbolic reminder" of the town's industrial heritage, it was the brainchild of the wife of the local ironworks owner.

The iron clock has stood in The Circle, originally known as Market Square, since the mid-19th Century, although problems "occasionally arise" due to its age, the council said.

However, Smith of Derby, the original clockmakers, has furloughed many of its staff, while lockdown rules in Wales also prevent non-essential travel.

The council said the company did not expect the clock to be fully operational for up to six weeks.

"The only option, at this current time, would be for the town council to take the decision to close down all operation of the town clock, but is reluctant to take this course, as it is unclear if this action could cause further damage to this listed structure," the council said in a statement.

"Tredegar Town Council [is] deeply disappointed with the current situation but endeavour in all its undertakings to strictly adhere to government guidance in respect of Covid-19 restrictions."