THE team behind the transformation of an abandonned water mill in Ryedale are looking forward to a glittering awards ceremony celebrating the work of dedicated heritage volunteers.

Howsham Mill has been shortlisted in the "Best rescue of an industrial building" in the Angel Awards, which were set up by Andrew Lloyd Webber in 2011 to celebrate the efforts of individuals and local groups all over the country who put hours of hard work, passion and perseverance into saving vulnerable, damaged and derelict historic landmarks from being lost forever.

Howsham Mill has been restored back to its former glory using traditional methods and backed by the Renewable Heritage Trust, and its new waterwheel has been supplying energy to the National Grid since 2010.

English Heritage's Planning Director for Yorkshire Tammy Whitaker said: “The Angel Awards shine a light on the thousands of people who make up England’s heritage champions. Sometimes with the help and expertise of bodies like English Heritage, but sometimes by just going it alone they save our nation’s heritage.

"The passion, perseverance and imagination of the volunteers that worked so hard to get an 18th Century mill to supply electricity, are an inspiration to us all. Their dedication and determination ensures that together we can secure the future of sites highlighted on English Heritage's At Risk register.”

The Angel Awards shortlist was announced on Wednesday, August 20, and the winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at the Palace Theatre in London on Monday, November 3, hosted by Andrew Lloyd Webber.