THE mechanics of the historic turret clock in the stable block courtyard at Hestercombe have mysteriously disappeared.

Hestercombe Gardens Trust chief executive Philip White has appealed for help in finding the £5,000 clock movement, which was in a cupboard inside the building.

The main clock, made by J.W. Benson of London, was installed in 1895, though it has not worked for over 50 years and was due to be restored as part of new developments at Hestercombe.

Mr White said: "The loss of this prized mechanism is a great disappointment particularly as it was to become a focal attraction in the new visitors centre in the stable block once Somerset Fire Brigade re-locates.

"The idea was to position the movement in the dining room so visitors could watch the fascinating structure at work.

"We can't understand how it can have been taken, protected as it was by a series of locked gates and doors.

"We'd dearly like any information concerning its whereabouts so we may restore and reinstate it."

The heavy structure, which is roughly the size of two shoeboxes, is characterised by its two-train striking and lacquered brass wheels.

The Antiquarian Horological Society has been alerted about the clock's loss.

Anyone with information about the clock movement should contact Mr White on 01823-413923 or Chief Fire Officer Clive Kemp on 01823-364501.