AN 18th Century cotton mill has been chosen as the fifth building to go through to the final of the BBC2 series Restoration.

Gayle Mill, near Hawes, North Yorkshire, was chosen as one of eight historic buildings that will compete for the show's prize - a complete renovation.

Funding has been raised to convert the mill into a learning centre, but the North-East Civic Trust needs more money to restore its 250-year-old water system, one of the oldest in existence.

The mill was built in 1776 as a cotton factory and harnessed the power of water flowing through the village for more than two centuries.

The Heritage Lottery Fund has set aside £2.5m for the show's winner, which will be decided in the final on Sunday.

Gayle Mill fought off competition from Sheffield Manor Lodge, in South Yorkshire, and the Lion Salt Works, in Cheshire.

Published: 03/08/2004