A NEW clock tower added some gravitas to the Strood skyline when it opened in the town centre.

Rochester couple Michael Dakers, 66, and Gillian Dalton, 64, of law firm Dakers Marriott, unveiled the clock tower on Thursday after six years of development.

The Michael Gill building on the corner of Tolgate Lane has five shops, an office and a weather-vane.

Solicitor Mr Dakers, of Roebuck Road, said: "I was concerned that Strood didn't have any decent buildings.

"The new building will, I hope, provide some recompense to people for the loss of that other important landmark, the Aveling Porter building."

The project was a family affair – Mr Dakers' son Oliver, a blacksmith born in Strood, built the ironwork.

Wild Wood Installations, son-in-law Peter Leck's company, provided the hardwood interiors for the offices.

Even Mr Dakers' business partner Mark Marriott contributed – his brother Lee installed the electrical and IT cabling.

Two of the shop units have already been rented, and Dakers Marriott will take up the office space when the interior is finished.

Mr Dakers said: "We look forward to moving offices and creating a useful and visual presence in Strood."