by Stuart Somers

An Island landmark should be revealed in all its glory by the end of the week – weather permitting.
Scaffolding surrounding Sheerness Windmill is to due to dismantled because the final screw in the last piece of white weatherboarding protecting the structure has been put in place.
The honour of putting the last of 4,200 screws into the final board went to Alan Willicombe, Mayor of Swale, who climbed up the 60ft high mill, off the high street, for the occasion.
Father and son team Bernie and Caleb Watson restored the mill from its original, derelict, brick base which dates back 120 years.
It has taken them and a small team more than two years get to this latest milestone.
Caleb said: “I am delighted that Mr Willicombe was able put in the final screw having climbed to the top up stairs and ladders in the inside. It means I can now start taking down the scaffolding which should be complete by the end of the week, depending on the weather.
“There are a total of 560 cement weatherboards protecting the mill and I am pleased to say that the sprinkler system has also now been fitted with other safety and security precautions.
“Once the scaffolding comes down I will put the handrails up and then the large wooden beams, or stocks to give them the right name, can be hoisted into place. Due to the proximity of neighbouring flats being built, I cannot put up the full sails which has saved me £40,000.”