If you take the train from Sleaford to Heckington in the heart of Lincolnshire, you cannot fail to notice Heckington’s windmill. The nineteeth century landmark, which has stood overlooking the village since 1830 can be seen for miles around.

What you may not have noticed is that Heckington’s windmill carries eight sails not the typical four. The sight of such a windmill is the last to be seen in Northern Europe making the image both unique and a symbol of British heritage.

The Heritage lottery has pledged nearly a million pounds toward the preservation of the windmill and the redevelopment of the surrounding grounds. The project includes a bakery which will use the flour milled on site making the produce available to the public.

Heckington Windmill is owned by Lincolnshire County Council who are in support of the project and have funded the replacement of the unique sails. Jim Bailey the Mill Manager said; ‘The windmill is very important to the community and they understand it’s unique.’