A team of Rotary Club volunteers, from Saffron Walden and Royston, cut turves at the windmill site on 17th October marking the start of restoration of the landmark.
The main aim of the Great Chishill Windmill Trust is to preserve the mill in a stable and weather-proof condition for future generations to enjoy. A second phase seeks to make it fit to turn into the wind to allow the restoration of the sails without risk of overstressing the structure.
Whilst permission must be gained for work on the Grade II listed building itself, the committee decided to start visible work on the site by uncovering the fantail track. This is the circular track on which the tail assembly wheels travelled as the mill turned into wind around its central post.
David Telford, President of the Saffron Walden Rotary Club said:
We were happy to help out on such a lovely day with a glorious view and passing interests. Hopefully the exposure of the tail track will add momentum to the restoration project.’
Everyone greatly appreciates their splendid work which has brought us a step closer to seeing this icon move with a purpose once more.