Elderly driver destroys beloved 125-year-old Paterson Clock in Bridge of Allan

In the early evening of December 6, 2024, a car driven by a 78-year-old woman struck the Paterson Clock, a beloved 125-year-old memorial located in Bridge of Allan, Stirlingshire, Scotland. The ornamental clock, which also served as a drinking fountain, was erected in 1899 in memory of local physician Dr. Alexander Paterson. It had become a historic landmark and community centerpiece over the years, standing just outside the Westerton Arms pub on a busy street corner. The incident occurred around 4:25 PM when the Mini Cooper the driver was operating reportedly hit a barrier after exiting the pub's car park, subsequently colliding with two parked vehicles before mounting the kerb and hitting the clock tower directly. It resulted in significant destruction of the clock, which was designed by renowned architect Alexander 'Greek' Thomson and had represented local history for more than a century. The aftermath of the event saw emergency services respond quickly, with the driver being transported to Forth Valley Royal Hospital for medical attention. Police Scotland conducted an investigation into the crash, and the driver is expected to face a report for alleged road traffic violations stemming from this incident. Local historians and community members expressed their sorrow over the loss of the landmark, noting that its destruction would be deeply felt in a community that had cherished it for many generations. The Bridge of Allan Community Council and local historians, like Craig Mair, voiced intentions to engage with Stirling Council to explore the possibility of repairing or restoring the clock, emphasizing its importance to the town's cultural heritage. As of now, some parts of the clock have been salvaged, indicating a potential path toward restoration, though the full implications of the crash on this cherished site remain uncertain amidst the community’s mourning. This event demonstrates the fragility of historic landmarks in the face of modern vehicular traffic, as well as the implications such incidents have on local communities who often view these structures as part of their identity. As discussions about repair and potential restoration emerge, the importance of safeguarding such historical monuments against future incidents will likely be a vital topic of conversation among community leaders and residents alike.