It is thought that the mill is the only one in the country which has been constantly operated since it was first built, but without a significant injection of cash it is feared it will close.

James Barlow is a descendant of one of the farmers who initially raised the cash to build the mill in 1813 and he now helps to run the attraction which opens free to tourists and school trips.

Mr Barlow said: "The last estimate we had for the work that is required was £88,000 plus VAT. Obviously that is a massive amount of cash and we need help to raise it.

"We are looking at making the mill a charitable trust, which will help us in our search for funding, but the repairs which we need to do are urgent – two of the sails are rotten.

"Some of the woodwork in the cap of the mill is also rotted through and other beams need repair. The problem is that there are only a few millwrights left in the country and it is specialised work."

Villagers who live close to the mill in North Leverton, near Retford, work as volunteers and have helped to keep the Grade II star mill open for decades. It has been recognised by the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings as one of the best preserved working mills in the world.

The mill is holding an open weekend on September 13 and 14 between 11am and 4pm where it is hoped some money will be raised. To offer help to the mill call Mr Barlow on 01427 880254.