Iconic North Leverton Windmill was built in 1813 and it is the only windmill in England that has never fallen into disrepair and has milled every year since it was built, and that is all down to the support of the local community and visitors.
The white woodwork and black tower have been repainted and tarred, a job that needs doing every three to five years but was postponed due to the lockdown. It took 75 litres (or 16 gallons-ish) of paint and a drum of bitumen to do the job, and that is thanks to the donations and funds raised during 2021. The windmill is now watertight for winter, and bright and shining for the upcoming annual fundraising Family Fun Weekend on 10th and 11th September.
The weekend starts with a Tractor Run which will leave the windmill at 10.00am on Saturday morning, returning at 12.00pm when the Family Fun Weekend opens to the public. There is lots on this year – a market selling local arts and crafts, birds of prey, shire horses, and Oriontree alpacas. Registration for the fun dog show starts at 12.00pm on both days, with judging commencing around 1.00pm; there will be three classes as usual.
Not forgetting the kids, there is face painting, bouncy castles, strike, soft archery, hook a duck and lots more fun. After last year’s success, Wheels@TheWindmill returns with everything from Monster Trucks through stationary engines and tractors to fabulous cars, bikes and scooters. There will be prizes awarded on both Saturday and Sunday for ‘The best wheels’, but what will the judges be looking for?
Music@TheMill will host bands and local talent on Saturday from 4.30pm (ish) with Big Wayne’s Blues Experience, Andy Cox, Littleborough Skifflers, and back by popular demand Propeller and, of course, resident DJ Jono.
There will be food and refreshments available throughout so all you have to take is a chair or picnic blanket and a smile. Public admission is £2.50 for adults, under 18s are free but must be accompanied by a responsible adult. This includes free parking in an adjacent field and a raffle ticket. More information is available on the Official North Leverton Windmill Facebook Page or call 01427 880254 for details.
Please go along and help make this year’s event the best ever and keep those sails facing the wind and the Windmill in tip top condition for future generations to enjoy. Everyone is welcome.
North Leverton Windmill is owned and operated by North Leverton Windmill Charitable Trust, with all proceeds from the weekend going to the upkeep of the windmill.