At this Thursday's meeting of the Peterborough Improvement Commissioners, the chairman read a letter received from a Mr Burlingham, who had been contracted to wind the clock of St John's Parish church following complaints by many citizens of its irregularity. Burlington's letter stated that, in his opinion, 'the irregularity of the church clock was partly owing to the severe weather, and partly to the worn state of portions of the works'. To efficiently repair the clock would require it to be stopped for a fortnight. His estimated cost for the work was £3 10s, but if these repairs were executed he was willing to reduce his charges for winding from £9 to £8. Mr Taylor and Mr Wyman, members of the committee, suggested that other tenders be sought for keeping the clock in repair and winding it for five years. Dr Walker and Mr Buckle. meanwhile proposed that Mr Burlingham's offer be accepted. Referring to Mr Taylor's motion, Dr Walker stated that he did not wish the tender to be worded 'keep in repair' but 'repair' only. Dr Walker's resolution was carried by a majority of one. (Peterborough Standard)

Taken from The Peterborough Book of Days by Brian Jones, The History Press, 2014.