Why Skidby Mill is missing its famous giant sails - for now

The mill’s four sails, each 11 metres in length, have been sent away for repair by a specialist millwright. Examinations found two needed replacing entirely and they are due to be installed – along with the two other surviving but updated sails – in early 2021.

News of the refurbishment project on the Grade II listed building was announced by East Riding of Yorkshire Council last November, with the sails being transported to Norfolk for expert treatment.

In July, the council began work on the tower on the mill itself – with the list of repair jobs including work on the rood and windows as well as repainting.

Paul Kilvington, the council’s group manager for building facilities, explained at the time: “Skidby Mill is a much loved local feature, and as a council, we are committed to maintaining the structure. Works of this nature are required to keep its fabric in good condition.

“The sails were removed by a specialist millwright earlier in the year and when examined, it became apparent that two of them were damaged beyond repair. The millwright is currently manufacturing two new sails. The other two sails have been repaired, along with the fantail assembly, and they will all be replaced, including the two new sails, in early 2021.”

Skidby Mill is unusual among most surviving mills around the UK in that it still has all of its original outbuildings around the courtyard. It is in these converted buildings that the Museum of East Riding Rural Life is based. According to East Riding Museums, the building of the tower mill dates back to 1821 but there have been windmills in Skidby since 1316. The mill ceased to operate commercially in 1966 and was sold to Beverley Rural District Council (later Beverley Borough Council) for a nominal £1. In 1974 the mill was restored to full working order using wind power. As its 200th anniversary approach, another chapter in its history is around the corner.

Technical information: Nikon D850 camera with a 24-70mm lens, exposure of 1/320th of a second at f18, ISO 400.

Support The Yorkshire Post and become a subscriber today. Your subscription will help us to continue to bring quality news to the people of Yorkshire. In return, you’ll see fewer ads on site, get free access to our app and receive exclusive members-only offers. Click here to subscribe.