THERE are only two days left for the people of Basingstoke to make their views known on the designs for a new local landmark.

Residents have until Friday to submit their comments on the plans to mount the famous Thornycroft factory clock on the Thornycroft Roundabout.

After the deadline passes, Hampshire Museums Trust will enter into a consultation process with bosses at Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and Milestones museum.

The winning design will then be announced and the trust will apply for planning permission and National Lottery funding.

Ian Smith, director of development at Hampshire Museums Trust, is very pleased with the response so far.

He said: "We have had a lot of comments from the public, much more of a response than we had anticipated."

"It really seems to have caught their interest. In fact, I would say it is the best response to a public consultation we have ever had and all of the comments will be taken into consideration.

"One of the towers is more popular than the others. So far nothing is decided yet, but one of the designs is ahead of the other two.

"I would like to thank everyone who has written to us so far. We have had many supportive letters and e-mails. It seems to be something that people want.

"We still have further consultation to do, but we hope to be in a position to make a decision by the end of February."

The designs are on display on this website here - and in the window of our office in Church Street.

Anyone with any comments or ideas should write to, or e-mail, Mr Smith before Friday. Letters should be sent to Ian Smith, Hampshire Museums Trust, Chilcomb House, Chilcomb Lane, Winchester, SO23 8RD.

He can be e-mailed at musmis@hants.gov.uk