Windmill needs more helpers

A SHORTAGE of fundraisers and admin volunteers could post problems for Polegate's historic windmill.

Funded and run by the Eastbourne and District Preservation Trust charity, the 19th Century tower mill is the oldest working example of its kind in the county. Over the past few years, it has had extensive works undertaken on it and is now in almost full working order.

In the trust's annual report, chairman David Jones noted: 'At this critical time, the one aspect that is causing concern is the lack of help with fund-raising and administration.'

He added: 'It would be a pity if all the effort put in over the past years is wasted by a shortage of volunteers willing to give a little of their time to the mill.'

Over the past year, many improvements have been made to the workings of the mill. Bevel gears were re-installed to the drive on the third stone and the stones themselves have been prepared for when the works are finished and actual grinding can commence.

Three 20-ton hydraulic jacks have been brought in at a cost of more than 1,000 to lift up the mill's cap, which turns on a pivot. When it is lifted, the rollers on which it turns can be removed and refurbished, allowing the cap to run more smoothly.

The sails or 'sweeps', as they are known each have shutters to catch the wind and turn the machinery with enough power to ground flour. At the end of last year, nearly 400 castings were bought for the pivots on each end of the shutters.

Heavy rain over the winter months has led to a severe leakage of water into the mill, so the trust has decided to instigate 'Operation Weathershield' to protect the interior from water. The tower will be tiled, all exterior woodwork painted and the cap waterproofed.

Last year saw donations to the mill increase, but admissions to the museum and sales from the gift shop fall. Actual fund raising reaped just more than 700, compared to 1,072 in 2000.

If you are interested in helping the mill by volunteering services or donating money, contact the preservation trust secretary Lawrence Stevens on 01323 734496.