A VICTORIAN sawmill in Blenheim Estate is up and running thanks to a £768,000 grant.

Combe Mill once produced timber for Blenheim Palace and the surrounding area.

But the grade two listed sawmill has received £768,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund to improve the mill and its museum.

The money will be used to repair the roof, windows, stonework and render, as well as install a lift and new catering and toilet facilities.

It will also be used to improve attractions at the site, which it is hoped will double the number of visitors.

On Sunday, about 200 people visited to watch as the steam engine, which powers the sawmill, was started up. Luke Gray, eight, pictured above, was one of the people who tried his hand as a blacksmith.

Combe Mill Society chairman Tony Simmons, inset, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have this grant.

“The enthusiasm of our visitors and the local community for the mill to be conserved has been rewarded.

“We can now remedy over 50 years of neglect to secure this fascinating place for generations to come.”

Prime Minister and Witney MP David Cameron said: “Being a close neighbour of the Combe Mill site, I am delighted that this remarkable example of 19th century industrial and social heritage has received funding.”

Picture: Antony Moore