DURING a recent walk around Throop Mill it was horrifying to see and smell obvious signs of decay with this historic building.

Ten years or so ago, a group of elderly folk used to used to hold 'open days' at the mill grounds annually, to collect donations and help with the upkeep of the mill. I can remember enjoying the garden fete atmosphere, sitting on the freshly cut lawn with a cup of tea and cream cake, purchased at the mill. During these 'open days' we were able to see inside the mill, explore the space and observe how the mechanisms work.

Today that freshly cut lawn is no more and is now waist high with weeds, brambles and piles of gravel.

The interior of the mill has an uninviting feel and smells of rot. The river water appears stagnant and only two ducks remain, who swam bravely towards us, whereas in the past there used to be at least twenty. Also, the swans have long departed so there is no more cheerful quacking and splashing about from our wildlife.

In its heyday Throop Mill was a going concern, today it is crying out for help. The late Ron Whittaker did all he could to revive the mill but it was an on-going battle.

Is anybody looking after Throop Mill? Or are we going to let it rot away?

What do we tell our grandchildren?

DOROTHY CASEY

Knowlton Gardens, Bournemouth