CELEBRATIONS to mark two centuries of Rayleigh’s iconic windmill started this week.

A reception at the Grade II listed building, in Bellingham Lane, saw a number of activities taking place and a taste of what is to come this year.

Rochford District Council owns the site and has bid for £32,500 of Heritage Lottery funding to pay for this year’s programme of events.

These will culminate in an anniversary party day for visitors in September.

On Wednesday morning, Down Hall Primary School youngsters were busy making model windmills, with a professional artist, while King Edmund School pupils baked bread the old-fashioned way in the mill.

The council’s arts development officer, Emily Malcolm, gave a talk on what was in store, including a piece of public art to be unveiled in the neighbouring garden during the autumn, and a folk song to be written about the windmill by local group, Pier Talk. Also coming up will be an oral history project, with talks, special tours, art workshops and community meetings.

Keith Gordon, councillor responsible for leisure, said: “The windmill is an important building.

“The community see it as a symbol of Rayleigh and now everyone can join in with celebrating this occasion.”

The district council is working with the National Trust, Rayleigh Historical Society, Essex County Council and others to plan the anniversary festivities.

For more information, go to: www.rochford.gov.uk/windmill celebrations or call Emily Malcolm on 01702 318171.