After
our chairman Jonathon Cook had welcomed and
introduced the day’s events it was on to the first
speaker, Rob Cumming.
As a
teenager 30 years ago, he was well known in SPAB and
MRG circles for his interest in Kent Mills. Here he
was, once more, giving us a modern perspective on
Kent wind-milling, which was much enjoyed.
This
was followed by the Coultershaw Heritage Site
Project which has become much enlarged from the days
of only a restored, single estate, water pumping
set. Peter Hill then gave us some background into
West Blatchington Windmill and the years of work and
funding it required to reach it’s current excellent
condition. A fine buffet lunch was provided by
Peter’s wife, Joan and her friends,
The
afternoon session started with millwright Tony Hole
who has been involved with mill projects in
Hampshire and the South East of England He spoke to
us about the history and workmanship of his family
company over the decades. This was followed by
Richard Howes, on the Argos Hill Windmill project..
Our last contributor was James Tasker who spoke, on
mill reconstruction and the challenges it provides.
Additional members contributions included
presentations by:- David Plunkett relating HMG news
and events, Colin Smith who spoke enthusiastically
on Scottish Mills and Brian Pike who treated us to
a video on Nutley Windmill.
The
meeting offered a good venue outside of London and
thanks must go to Peter Hill, and his well organised
team of volunteers. The whole event was most
successful.
