Landmark reopens after repairs

Thanks to £50,000 of funding from Warwickshire County Council, the roof of the Chesterton Windmillhas has new metal cladding fitted and its masonry blocks, which had been damaged by the elements, have been repaired.

The windmill’s sails were also repainted and the internal timber work treated to protect it from beetle and fungal attack.

Peter Bones, the county council’s flood risk manager, said: “With these repairs, plus a fresh coat of paint, the windmill is now in better condition than it has been for years. It is hoped that the life of the windmill is now assured for many years to come.”

Chesterton Windmill was built in 1633 and it remained in use as a flour mill until 1910, when its machinery stopped working. It is thought to have been built for Sir Edward Peyto, owner of Chesterton Manor.

Once a year the mill is opened to the public, when visitors are able to climb the steep wooden steps into the building and have a look round. This year there was no open day due to the refurbishment works, but it is expected to take place once again next year.