If you go down to Pann Mill on the first or third Sunday morning of the month, then you’re likely to encounter some of the team of volunteer millers who regularly undertake all the minor maintenance tasks that are needed to keep the mill in working condition. They are usually happy to welcome visitors wanting to know more about their work and particularly appreciate any genuine offers of help.
Their latest project is a MAJOR refurbishment of the waterwheel. Keen observers may already have noticed a change in its appearance – and may also have observed some curious activities in progress in the garden.
Over the winter months the millers hope to renew all 48 “buckets”, the term used to describe the blades which catch the water and turn the wheel. This is an expensive undertaking, even with voluntary labour. Strips of steel have been bought and are being bent to the correct shape. The millers then cut slots and holes in preparation for fixing. The buckets need to be galvanised, a specialist job, and painted to ensure they are rustproof. They are then fitted to the wheel frame one by one. Removing the old buckets is no mean feat either as they have been in place for 50 years, but it is hoped the work will be complete in time for the next open day in May 2019.
Can you help?
The millers would be glad of any offers of extra help with the labour involved either on this project or in the surrounding garden.
Financial contributions to the above project would also be most welcome. It is intended to install a plaque in the mill recording the names of individuals and teams who would like their donations of £25 or more to be recognised in that way. The full cost of renewal of each bucket is £125 and anyone who wishes to give that sum is invited to specify a name to be recorded on an actual bucket. Cheques should be made payable to “Pann Mill” and sent to The Treasurer, High Wycombe Society, 65 Deangarden Rise, High Wycombe, HP11 1RF. If you are able to donate please enclose a covering letter explaining what the donation is for, and giving your contact details particularly if you would like a receipt, and (if relevant) specifying a name you would like recorded. Online payments (BACS) can be sent to: Sort Code: 40-24-17 Account No: 62422964 stating Pann Mill in the reference.