Nearly 100 people visited the Rayleigh Windmill when it re-opened over the Easter weekend.

The visitors enjoyed a host of new displays including a listening post that holds oral history interviews and a new film about the Windmill.

Don’t worry if you missed out though, south Essex’s hidden gem is open through to and including September on Wednesdays: 10am to 1pm and Saturdays and Sundays: 1pm to 4pm. Although do check www.rochford.gov.uk/windmill and the noticeboard outside the Windmill to confirm opening times.

The Windmill has had a busy winter following a packed year of Heritage Lottery Funded “Sails in the Wind” events celebrating its 200th birthday.

It received recognition from the national tourist body Visit England who gave the Windmill a Quality Assured Visitor Attraction award which sits proudly next to its Accreditation status from The Museums, Libraries and Archive Council (MLA) – the national agency responsible for developing museums, galleries, libraries and archives.

The Windmill was also shortlisted for an Essex Tourism Award for operators who see themselves as part of the local tourism industry attracting both Essex residents as well as welcoming tourists from outside the county.

The Windmill was shortlisted in the categories of ‘Leisure & Recreation’ and ‘Best Tourism’ experience.

There’s also the opportunity for you to get involved in the continuing success story of the Windmill, the team are always looking for new volunteers to join them. Call the Leisure Team on 01702 546366 for more details.