Trustees are a step closer to saving Thaxted's last remaining windmill thanks to a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Thaxted Windmill Trust received the grant for £116,902 for the development of a project to conserve John Webb's Mill.

Historic England has also contributed £33,326 towards the project, largely towards planning and millwrighting repairs, alongside technical support and guidance.

The Grade II* listed red brick tower windmill was built in 1804 for local businessman and farmer John Webb, who owned the town's brick and tile works.

Dunmow Broadcast: The stone floor at John Webb's MillThe stone floor at John Webb's Mill (Image: Trustees of Thaxted Windmill)

The largest and most advanced of the Thaxted mills, it was in operation for 100 years, and is the only remaining windmill in the area.

As part of the project, the stories of the people who worked at the mill will be brought to life.

Mark Rickards, of Thaxted Windmill Trust, said: "The Trustees of Thaxted Windmill Trust CIO are pleased to be working with both Historic England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund on this very important stage of the Windmill's restoration.

"We all remain dedicated to the original objective of ensuring that this iconic landmark is truly 'conserved for its community'."

In 2019, John Webb's Mill was added to Historic England's Heritage at Risk register, as the building is suffering from extensive internal damp caused by eroded brickwork and open joints, which is causing widespread mould on internal walls.

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The mill's interior has been propped, and the Windmill Trust is carrying out detailed investigations to inform a repair strategy.

The trust also aims to use the conservation work to offer workshops in traditional building and millwrighting skills, and to promote careers in these endangered crafts.

Students will also be offered work experience as conservators, and volunteers can try their hand at research, interpretation and delivering learning activities.

Robyn Llewellyn, director for England, Midlands & East at The National Lottery Heritage Fund said: "We're delighted to be supporting Thaxted Windmill Trust with the conservation of John Webb’s Windmill, ensuring that this rich heritage is safeguarded and the stories of the people who worked at the mill will be passed on to future generations."