Talk on history of Billingford Mill raises money for restoration
Julie and Herbert Websdell at Billingford Mill. - Credit: Eastern Daily Press © 2013
A talk on the history of an iconic South Norfolk windmill raised £344.50 towards its restoration.
Ivan Daines explained the past of Billingford Mill, near Diss, at the event at Brockdish Village Hall on Sunday.
The grade II listed building was built in the 1850s and was still being operated as a commercial mill 100 years later.
However the Norfolk Windmills Trust, which owns the site, is appealing for people to donate money so the mill can be brought back into full working order.
Current millers Julie and Herbert Websdell are also looking for volunteers to take over from them after looking after it for 10 years.
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With Mr Websdell aged 81 and his wife aged 66, the pair are looking for people who can assist visitors with tours of the mill once they are no longer able to do so.
'If we hadn't stepped in where we did, I don't know in what state the mill would be now,' said Mr Websdell.
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'It's history. It's here and someone needs to do it, otherwise it would just die.' The mill was open to visitors after Sunday's talk.
Are you trying to safeguard a piece of Norfolk history? Tell the Mercury by calling 01379 651153 or email dma.news@archant.co.uk
