Future of historic mill secured

Eskdale Mill in Boot which dates back to 1578 is sold

A 500-year-old corn mill in West Cumbria dating back to the reign of Elizabeth I has been sold for more than £100,000 to safeguard its future.

Eskdale Mill in Boot is one of the county's biggest tourist attractions.

But Cumbria County Council put it up for sale two years ago claiming it was too costly to maintain.

Locals feared it may be lost, but now it has been revealed the Eskdale Mill and Heritage Trust charity has bought the mill.

Under the terms of the agreement the charity must preserve the fabric of the mill and its 300-year-old cottage, as well as continuing to run it as a visitor attraction and employ the existing mill manager.

'Special character'

County councillor Liz Mallinson said: "After many twists and turns the future of Eskdale Mill is now settled.

"The sale draws to a close the council's long custodianship of this special property.

"I am confident the trust will take the mill on to a new stage of development and secure its future as one of the most unusual and interesting heritage attractions in Cumbria."

Peter van Zeller, spokesman for Eskdale Mill and Heritage Trust, said a Society of Friends would be set up to ensure a regular charitable income.

He said: "The trust believes the mill should continue to be conserved, operated and developed in a sensitive and sympathetic way so that future generations can enjoy its special character."