Rayleigh Windmill has recently achieved the accreditation of Quality Assured Visitor Attraction from Visit England.

Visit England is a national body that assesses visitor attractions throughout the country.

The report praised the warm welcome offered by the volunteers as well as their enthusiasm and knowledge.

The Chairman of Rochford District Council, Councillor Tony Humphries (pictured with volunteers from
the Windmill), said: “To receive accreditation from such a prestigious national body is a credit not only to the District, but also the wonderful volunteers who help run this historic gem of south Essex.”

There are plenty of events to enjoy

The celebrations for the 200th birthday of the Windmill are continuing with more Sails in the Wind projects
being completed over the winter thanks to funding by the Heritage Lottery Fund.

New exhibition pieces are being researched and developed to be installed in the museum in time for the reopening on Sunday 4 April. Local artist Louise Best is creating a scrap book to record all the memories and events of the anniversary year.

South Essex Filmmakers are putting the finishing touches to an educational film about windmills and Essex Records Office have produced a classroom resource pack for local schools.

This year we have also arranged for several other exhibitions to be held on the second floor of The Windmill, these include an exhibition celebrating diversity in Essex called ‘One World’, local artists and a centenary celebration by a local Girl Guides Group.

Over to you… Rayleigh Windmill will reopen again on Sunday 4 April (Easter Sunday) through to and including September (subject to closures for private functions) on Wednesdays: 10am -1pm and Saturdays and Sundays: 1pm-
4pm. New volunteers are always welcome, see below for details. For more information about the Windmill and volunteering please contact the Leisure Team on 01702 546 366 or email: leisure@rochford.gov.uk

For more information on Sails in the Wind or Oral history interviews visit: http://www.rochford.gov.uk/windmillcelebrations or contact Roxie Curry on 01702 318171 if you or someone you know would like to be interviewed.