A LANDMARK occasion is in the wind as a prominent listed building is poised to be restored to its former glory, weather permitting.

Fulwell Mill, in Sunderland, is to swing back into action next week after a seven-month restoration, costing £800,000.

A giant crane will help to remount the refurbished sails, at the Newcastle Road landmark, with contractors setting aside four days to carry out the work, depending on the weather.

On completion, the Grade II listed monument will become the most complete example of a working mill north of Skidby Mill, in North Yorkshire.

Cash backing from European Regional Development Fund, the Heritage Lottery Fund and Sunderland City Council, has allowed the mill to be preserved to its former full working order.

Built on the site of a former mill in 1821, for ship owner Matthew Robson Swan, it is believed to have been constructed by a Mr Allison, of Whitburn, using magnesian limestone, from the nearby Swan's quarries