For many of us, the changing of the clocks is forgotten about as quickly as it happens.

But for Julian Newman, it is a great responsibility.

For nearly two decades, he has had the all-important task of changing the 30 clocks in Blenheim Palace by an hour twice a year.

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But this year, as the clocks went back today (Sunday, October 29), he “passed over the reins” to the next generation.

Mr Newman, deputy events and hospitality manager, has trained two other staff members at the palace to carry out his essential duties.

Oxford Mail: Julian Newman changing the 30 clocks in Blenheim Palace for nearly two decades

He said: “It’s been a pleasure to have the responsibility of checking, winding, and changing the clocks.

“Passing over the reins to the next generation is important to keep the history of Blenheim Palace alive.”

An 18th Century Boulle table clock with a barometer was one of the palace locations where he taught his techniques to Martha Raymer, conservation assistant and George McDonald, conservation apprentice.

In the original casing by the master André Charles Boulle, the dial shows a winged figure of Chronos with a maiden.

The case is surmounted by the winged figure of Victory, flanked by two sphinxes and the base is inscribed with the motto ‘Cuncta cum tempore regunt’ – ‘time is the master of everything.’

Ms Raymer said: “Learning the tricks and techniques from Julian has been incredible and George and I are so excited to be handed over this important role that may seem small, but keeps Blenheim Palace ticking along.”