Chance to book spots on free course to learn about crafts

Places are still available on a free training course to learn about centuries old craft working skills, as part of a major heritage conservation project.

The restoration of Fulwell windmill is now approaching its final phase, with traditional craftsmen and millwrights preparing for the new cap, fantail and sails to be installed later this year.

To help demonstrate and share their traditional skills, specialist millwrights Owlsworth IJP are holding two practical training sessions at the mill on Thursday, October 19.

Places are still available on each of the free, two hour sessions (10am-12pm and 2pm-4pm) as part of the Historic England and Sunderland City Council funded project to repair and restore the windmill.

Sunderland City Council portfolio holder for public health, wellness and culture, Coun John Kelly said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to see traditional millwrights at work, and learn some of their skills passed through the generations. The craftsmen from Owlsworth IJP will provide these informative sessions in the car park at Fulwell Mill, where the construction of the new cap and fantail is being completed ready to be lifted into place on to the mill tower as part of its restoration.

“The millwrights will explain and demonstrate the traditional construction and repair methods being used in the repair and restoration of the mill cap and its working parts.”

The sessions are free, but booking is essential as there are only 10 spaces available for each session. To book a place, send an email to mark.taylor@ sunderland.gov.uk or call 0191 561 1515.