Major renovation work on Skidby Mill has secured the visitor attraction's long-term future.

Two of the windmill's four sails were replaced to complete the two-year programme of maintenance work yesterday.

Visitors are delighted that Skidby Mill, near Beverley, is back to its former glory and grinding corn again into flour.

Tony Snowden, mill attendant, said: "The restoration job has been fantastic and the craftsmanship in incredible.

"All four sails, and the cap which houses the works and main drive shaft, had to be removed due to concerns about rotting timbers.

"People have really missed the sails not being there because the mill is such a well-loved landmark, but now they are happy again."

The restoration of the East Riding Council-run mill has been carried out by family millwrights Thompsons, from Alford, Lincolnshire.

Mr Snowden said: "Thompsons have looked after the mill for over 100 years so we knew that the maintenance was in good hands.

"Quite a lot of repair work was needed on the timbers, and one of the sails had to be completely replaced.

"We were able to get the mill going when the first two sails were returned, but it is brilliant to see all four back in position."

Although the work on restoring the mill has taken two years, it has remained open as a visitor attraction.

Mr Snowden said: "Business has been affected a bit by the maintenance work, so we are pleased that it has now been completed."

Regular visitor Margaret Royston, from Pocklington, "Skidby is the only working windmill in Yorkshire and we go there whenever we can.

"It was strange to see the mill without its sails and cap, but the work means future generations can enjoy this wonderful building."