A BANK that lends solely to charities and community organisations have announced they are ‘proud’ to be a part of refurbishing a historical mill in Beetham.

Charity Bank provided £170, 000 to Heron Corn Mill to part finance the purchase and installation of power generating hydro equipment.

The charity was established in 2002 and provides flexible loans to support more than 1, 000 charities, community organisations and social enterprises across the UK.

The Grade II listed building has been on the site since 1220 and previously the Mill had largely been funded by a series of grants.

To help with the extensive refurbishment, Charity Bank provided a loan of over £170,000 which went towards the purchase and installation of the hydro equipment.

Simon Thorrington, Charity Bank’s regional director in the north of England, said: “It is nearly seven years since I first met the management and Trustees responsible for the running of Heron Corn Mill. During that time it has flourished.

“Today it stands as an example of a community rooted enterprise that demonstrates the wide range of benefits that flow from an intense trust based banking relationship.

“Both myself and Charity Bank are proud to be associated with this wonderful scheme.”

In October the Mill opened its doors to the public to witness progress in the refurbishment programme.