Iconic ‘Three Men in a Boat’ Clock Returns to Walsall!

Iconic ‘Three Men in a Boat’ Clock Returns to Walsall in Celebratory Launch

One of Walsall’s most treasured landmarks has proudly returned to the town centre following the official unveiling of the beautifully restored Three Men in a Boat clock. The launch, led by the Mayor of Walsall, marked a joyful moment for residents, visitors and local partners alike.

The Saddlers Shopping Centre atrium was filled with community spirit as residents, families, schoolchildren and partners gathered to witness the clock’s first chime at 2pm. The restoration celebrates the legacy of Walsall-born author Jerome K. Jerome and his much-loved novel Three Men in a Boat, which inspired the original feature.

Pupils from Butts Primary School delighted the audience with a special performance inspired by the story, adding a creative and heartfelt touch to the celebrations. The Jerome K Jerome Society also shared insight into the author’s enduring influence and his strong connection to the borough.

Speaking at the event, the Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Louise Harrison, said:

“This clock represents so much more than just telling the time. It stands as a symbol of Walsall’s rich cultural heritage and the pride our community feels for one of its most famous residents. So many people have campaigned to see this clock return, and it’s wonderful to finally welcome it back where it belongs.

Today’s turnout shows just how deeply people care about our history. It’s an honour to be part of a moment that brings generations together and inspires future storytellers.”

The reinstallation of the Three Men in a Boat clock forms part of Walsall Council’s wider programme to revitalise the town centre, supported by both Council funding and the Government’s Future High Streets Fund. The restoration also sits within the Connected Gateway programme, contributing to the borough’s ambitious £1.5 billion regeneration.

Deputy Leader of Walsall Council, Councillor Adrian Andrew, added:

“Today’s launch is a perfect example of how regeneration and heritage can go hand in hand. We’re proud to be standing in the newly refurbished Bradford Mall while also celebrating the return of a much-loved historic feature.

As we continue to transform the town centre over the coming months, we remain committed to protecting the character that makes Walsall special. Projects like this show how we can honour our past while building for the future.”

The launch event itself was a huge success, drawing a large and enthusiastic crowd and generating a real buzz throughout the centre. The atmosphere was one of celebration and pride, with visitors stopping to watch, take photos and share memories of the clock. The overwhelming response clearly demonstrated how strongly the community values its local heritage and the positive impact these regeneration projects are having.

Three Men in a Boat Competition – Still Open!

To continue the celebrations around the return of the much-loved Three Men in a Boat automaton clock, visitors still have the chance to take part in our special competition.

Prize

  • An exclusive Jellycat Terrier worth £50

  • A £20 Costa voucher to treat yourself to tea and cake

How to Enter

To enter, join us at the Saddlers Centre and:

  1. Pick up a competition postcard

  2. Answer the question on the card

  3. Post it into the postbox located in the Event Square by the clock

Deadline for entries: Sunday 21 December 2025

Good Luck!

 

Terms and conditions:

  • This competition is presented by Saddlers Shopping Centre, Park Street, Walsall, WS1 1YS.
  • The competition is open to residents of the United Kingdom except employees of Saddlers Shopping Centre and their close relatives.
  • There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to be entered into the competition to win a present from entered wish list forms.
  • By entering this competition, an entrant is indicating his/her agreement to be bound by these terms and conditions.
  • Route to entry for the competition is via a postcard posted in the post box at the Saddlers Centre or via Facebook only.
  • Staff are not responsible for individual entries, or the supply of accurate contact details supplied.
  • The prize consists of a Jellycat Terrier dog soft toy and a £20 Costa voucher, as decided by the Management team.
  • The winner will be decided by the Centre Management Team.
  • Prizes are not transferable.
  • No cash alternative available.
  • Prizes can only be collected from Saddlers Management Offices as agreed.
  • If a prize is not collected within 7 days of notifying the winner, another wish list winner will be picked at random to receive a gift instead of the previous winner.
  • Only one entry per person.
  • Contact details will be used to contact the winning entries only and for no other purposes.
  • Names and / or photographs will be taken and used for marketing purposes on the website, social media, video and press.
  • This competition ends on Sunday 21st December at 11:59pm