Repairs will see Chesterton Windmill sail on into the future

The most significant work is the replacement of the zinc cladding to the dome-shaped roof, known as the cap.

The cladding, more than 40 years old, is losing its weatherproofing qualities through the natural aging process and has also suffered storm damage in places.

If the cladding deteriorates rainwater will seep in and put at risk the timber structure and internal machinery, said Warwickshire County Council.

The landmark has been wrapped in scaffolding and the work is expected to take county council contractors eight weeks to complete.

The recent severe winters has increased the rate of erosion of some of the masonry, so some of the worst affected stone blocks will be replaced and the sail frames, whips and stocks will also be repainted.

Cllr Alan Cockburn, the county council’s portfolio holder for sustainable communities, said: “Because the windmill is a scheduled ancient monument the preservation works are being carried out in strict accordance with the requirements of English Heritage.”

Chesterton Windmill is a famous feature of the Warwickshire landscape and can be seen from several miles away on a hilltop overlooking the Fosse Way.

It remained in use until around 1910 and was restored from 1965-1971 by the county council in collaboration with the government and conservationists.