THE first phase of work to restore a mill is almost complete, despite the building losing out in a national television competition.

Gayle Mill, near Hawes, North Yorkshire, came third in the final of BBC television's Restoration programme last year.

Although the building missed out on a substantial cash prize, work is well under way to restore the 18th Century building to its former glory.

Martin Glynn, from the Gayle Mill Trust, said the first phase of work, to make the mill structurally sound, is due to be completed in the next ten days.

He said: "The work has involved the strengthening of the western gable wall, which was threatening to collapse.

"The roof has also been repaired and the windows have been taken out and refurbished."

Phases two and three, to restore the internal areas of the building and refurbish the water turbine is due to start in May and is expected to be completed by the autumn.

Nearly £900,000 has been pledged for the work, including from the Heritage Lottery Fund. Volunteers aim to open the building as a working sawmill and visitor centre.