Restoring Beckside Mill

The latest Near Far Heron project

Nestled in the picturesque village of Kirkby-in-Furness, England, Beckside Mill stands as a testament to the region's rich industrial heritage. The owners are old friends of the Heron Mill and Bread of Heron. The historic waterwheel, once a vital part of the local economy, has recently undergone repairs thanks to the skilled hands of mill technician Stuart and trainee Steve.

The Repair Process:

Steve and Stuart faced a challenging task when they arrived at Beckside Mill. The waterwheel's buckets, crafted from traditional Larch wood, were showing signs of deterioration, and some of the sole boards were rotting or missing entirely.

Sole (Boards)

A timber, sheet-iron, or steel lining to a waterwheel - or a board forming the inner face of an individual bucket

To address these issues, they carefully repaired the damaged buckets and replaced the sole boards. However, the process was not without its challenges. Removing the bucket boards without causing further damage required the creation of a specialised tool to spread the two sides of the waterwheel. This delicate operation demanded precision and skill to avoid dislodging all of the other boards.

A Passion for Preservation:

Steve and Stuart's dedication to preserving England's industrial heritage is evident in their meticulous work. By using traditional Larch wood for the repairs, they ensured that the waterwheel remained true to its original construction. Their commitment to learning and honing their skills is essential for safeguarding these historic structures for future generations.

A New Life for Beckside Mill:

The repairs to Beckside Mill has not only breathed new life into the waterwheel but has also revitalised the mill's role within the community. Converted into a family home in the 1960s, the mill has been a source of joy for its owners and visitors alike. With the waterwheel turning, the mill can now be enjoyed again by the people of Kirkby-in-Furness.

While the mill no longer grinds grain on-site, the repair work has provided Steve and Stuart with valuable experience and knowledge. Their dedication to preserving England's industrial heritage ensures that these historic structures will continue to inspire and captivate for years to come.

Thanks to National Lottery players, funding for Near Far Heron has been generously provided by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.