A CAMPAIGN has been launched to refurbish an historic Hampshire landmark after years of wear and tear.

For over 200 years, the sails of Bursledon Windmill on Windmill Lane have turned over the village.

Unlike many windmills built in the Victorian era, which featured cast-iron machinery, Bursledon Windmill, which is operated by charity Hampshire Cultural Trust, is said to be a “rare surviving example” of a traditional tower mill with timber machinery.

It was built in 1814 and as well as being Hampshire’s only working windmill, it is also used as a heritage visitors attraction.

Now though, years of wear and tear has led to stocks and sails having to be removed.

To get the landmark back to its former glory, Hampshire Cultural Trust has launched a fundraising campaign in order to support “vital” work in repairing or replacing the stocks and sails, allowing it to get back in working condition.

Through an online fundraiser, which can be found on the Cultural Trust’s website, the group hopes to raise £40,000 with the page set to close in two years time on March 10, 2022.

This comes after the Grade II listed building was rescued by Hampshire Building Preservation Trust in the 1970s and just over six years after the windmill reopened following a £150,000 make-over project.

David Plunkett of the Preservation Trust said: “The Hampshire Building Preservation Trust support the worthy efforts of Hampshire Cultural Trust in progressing the fundraising and repairs.”

“Age and the ravages of the weather have taken their toll and repairs are now needed to get the sails turning once again.”

In 2014, Hampshire County Council, Eastleigh Borough Council and Bursledon Parish Council as well as the Hampshire Buildings Preservation Trust rallied together to secure a £94,000 Heritage Lottery Fund grant to replace the windshaft.

Chair of Bursledon Parish Council and borough councillor, Steve Holes said: “We’ve traditionally been very supportive of the windmill because it’s such an important part of the village. When people say where do you live and you say Bursledon, you tell them turn off at the windmill.

“If there’s an attempt to raise the funds by voluntary donations then I am all for it. All museums are important because it teaches us about our history and we will continue to support the windmill as best we can.”