A BANK that lends solely to charities and community groups has announced it is ‘proud’ to be playing a part of refurbishing an historic mill in Beetham.

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

The bank was established in 2002 and provides flexible loans to support more than 1,000 charities, groups and social enterprises in the UK.

The Grade II listed building has been on the site since 1220 and Charity Bank provided a loan of more than £170,000 which went towards the purchase and installation of the equipment.

Regional director Simon Thorrington said: “Heron Corn Mill 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 see the refurbishment programme in action for the first time last month.