Grist To The Mill

The main picture today is Ludford Corn Mill, in the precinct of Ludford, just outside Ludlow, Shropshire. (best viewed large)

I was walking alongside the River Teme and took the picture with a view to researching it's history.

Little did I know that it is a property of great interest locally, as well as historically. It was a 17th century mill, one of several on the river, but is now a private property, last sold in 2017 for just under a million pounds. It's secret is hidden from view but the signs are there for those who know what to look for.

To the side of the property is a series of steps which seem incongruous and slightly out of keeping with the old building. But the construction houses a hydro-power installation with a 30kw turbine driven by an Archimedes Screw. I was delighted to read about this and have included a link with more info if you have a moment. It is a revelation to me and shows how 'modern' technology can be utilised alongside ancient and historically valuable structures.

http://ludlowhydro.org.uk/

In my extra is a shot of the 19th century Toll House, just along the lane from the mill. The Toll House would have once stood in relative isolation but is now surrounded by modern commercial property and a busy road. It is a shame that we cannot see it in it's original surroundings but a pleasure to see it at all. So many old properties have fallen victim to 'progress' and modern developments.