Fool of a tock: X-Men and Lords of the Rings star Sir Ian McKellen saves Edinburgh clock

A historic clock in Edinburgh is set to be repaired following an appeal by Sir Ian McKellen.

The 83-year-old actor had called for the clock at the former St Stephen’s Church in Stockbridge to be restored.

X-Men and Lord of the Rings start McKellen raised the issue ahead of performing at the venue in a new production of Hamlet on August 2.

McKellen said that he had spoken with Peter Schaufuss, who owns the building, whether the clock could be repaired and he was told that it was the responsibility of the council.

A spokesperson for The City of Edinburgh Council has now confirmed that the clock will be “up and running” by the weekend.

“Unfortunately the repairs to the clock at St Stephen’s Church were delayed as we awaited a replacement part,” they explained.

“We expect to receive this later this week and the clock will be up and running by the weekend.”

The topic was discussed by McKellen during an interview with BBC Radio Scotland’s The Afternoon Show.

Comparing it to the clock at Edinburgh Waverley train station, McKellen suggested that the clock at St Stephen’s could be set fast to let audiences know when performances are due to begin.

“It is waiting to be swung into action again to get that clock working. It’s an iconic clock in an iconic building,” he said.

“I gather that the clock at Waverley Stations always runs three minutes fast so that you don’t miss your train.

“We could perhaps do the same at the theatre. The bells are also still in the church – we could announce that performances are about to begin by chiming them.”