THE future of one of the oldest monuments in Marlow is once again assured, according to an interest group after it secured funds for its wellbeing.

The Tempus Fugit group, meaning "time flies" in Latin, has said it is delighted after it was handed the responsibility of fundraising for the Marlow town clock from the town council.

The group, who have sole interest in the clock, were asked in a letter to take charge of raising funds and applying for grants to help restore the antique clock, which has been subject to much controversy.

Members of Tempus Fugit had previously claimed that not enough was being done to preserve the clock, which had stopped several times at its location outside The Crown pub, in Market Square.

Their frustrations were voiced following the recent celebration for the town clock's 200th anniversary.

But now the group says they are hoping to look forward to the future, and is grateful for the opportunity from the town council.

Chairman of the group Tony Shannon said: "We have said we feel obligated to do it the fundraising but we probably won't be able to start the project until around September now.

"It is a major programme that would probably mean raising £25,000 to £30,000 for the clock."

He added: "Basically it is what we, as a group, were after to take charge of it, because we have the expertise and fundraising to make the programme work and we will begin to reel out a programme.

"We want to make sure we get value for money."

The clock is now set to be moved from its current location to the library in Institute Road.

The council asked the group to raise funds on their behalf because, as a public body, it cannot do so itself.

Council spokesman Jan Bailey said: "They Tempus Fugit indicated they might have access to some funds. What we want is the best situation for the clock and to make sure what is on the clock is accurate. We also want people who are interested in it to have access in the library."

Celebrations for the town clock continued this week, when as part of its 200th anniversary and the Marlow Regatta's 150th anniversary Mr Shannon handed over a hamper of gifts to the Marlow Cottage Hospital in Victoria Road.