A reception was held for an island-based horologist who is to receive an OBE for his ’outstanding services to watchmaking’.

Roger Smith OBE and his family attended the event hosted by Lieutenant Governor Sir Richard Gozney and Lady Gozney at Government House in Onchan.

Mr Smith, who has hand-crafted watches for around 20 years, also invited his workshop staff members.

He said: ’It was a wonderful occasion with family and friends.

’There were lots of people around as I tried to invite as many people who have been involved in the business.

’The event turned into a great opportunity where we’ve been able to thank everyone for their help.’

Originally from Bolton, Mr Smith moved to the island to join the studio of George Daniels CBE who was considered the best horologist in the world during his lifetime.

Mr Smith said: ’I went to the Manchester School of Horology to train as a watch or clock repairer. I met George there when I was 18 and he inspired me.

’I didn’t think making a watch by hand was possible until I met him and he really fired me up.’

After making a couple of watches by hand, he was offered a position with Mr Daniels in 1998.

The wife of the late Mr Daniels, Julie, and David Newman, chair of the George Daniels Educational Trust, were guests at the reception on Tuesday.

In 2001 Mr Smith established his own studio in the north of the island where he makes 10 watches a year.

He will be collecting his OBE from Buckingham Palace on November 21.

’It’s a wonderful pat on the back to be acknowledged in your efforts,’ he said.

The watchmaker first heard he was to receive an OBE as part of the Queen’s Birthday Honours list announcements in July.

He said: ’The Governor phoned to say that the Queen would like to make the award and would I accept it.

’It was a wonderful experience and all very surreal.’