The clock, first installed at the station in December 1895 and manufactured by Joyce of Whitchurch, Shropshire, was removed in August 2020 for restoration and to have its fixings remade.
It is now back on display for passengers and visitors alike.
The return marks a significant moment for Carnforth. The station has long been a destination for enthusiasts of the David Lean classic Brief Encounter, and the clock is one of its most recognisable symbols.
Mike Smith, who owns the clock and worked to have it restored at the station, was present at the official unveiling on Tuesday morning, along with representatives from Network Rail and Northern.
Ian Croucher and Peter Yates, local residents whose tireless efforts were instrumental in securing the clock’s return, also attended, along with Gilly Fleming, niece of Brief Encounter star Celia Johnson.
A beautifully crafted cake, designed in the style of the clock face, added to the celebrations – and was ceremonially cut by Mr Yates and Deputy Carnforth Town Mayor, Coun Ian Laurence.
Brief Encounter – about two married strangers who fall in love after meeting at a station – was shot at Carnforth between February 5 and February 16 1945, shortly before the end of World War Two.
The film has been a significant draw to the area, and the station’s heritage centre features an exhibition about the film.
The centre opened in 2003 after a sensitive restoration of parts of the station, which had become derelict before benefiting from £120,000 in funding from The Railway Heritage Trust.
We reported in June 2023 how the clock had been found languishing in a garage in Carnforth.
Former councillor and businessman Peter Yates discovered the clock more than 20 years ago when the refurbishment of the station and work on the heritage centre began.
One of his customers, Alan Smith, bought and restored the clock as the station meant a lot to him and, following his death, his son Mike took ownership.
1. Carnforth clock unveiling
The unveiling of the famous platform clock at Carnforth Railway Station that featured in the classic film Brief Encounter. Photo: Neil Cross
2. Carnforth clock unveiling
The unveiling of the famous platform clock at Carnforth Railway Station that featured in the classic film Brief Encounter. Photo: Neil Cross
3. Carnforth clock unveiling
Mike Smith, owner of the restored clock at the unveiling at Carnforth Railway Station that featured in the classic film Brief Encounter. Photo: Neil Cross
4. Carnforth clock unveiling
The unveiling of the famous platform clock at Carnforth Railway Station that featured in the classic film Brief Encounter. Photo: Neil Cross