200-year-old waterwheel at Merton Abbey Mills repaired and restored
Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 27 Oct, 14:32 · Archive
A 200-year-old waterwheel at Merton Abbey Mills has been repaired after a broken paddle jammed the wheel on October 15.
The 12-ton waterwheel at Merton Abbey Mills came to a sudden stop on October 15 when a sheared bolt sent a paddle off course. The damaged paddle ripped off a viewing platform window, which fell into the river and jammed the historic wheel.
Resident artist Ron Newsham heard the crash and alerted his colleagues, potters Steve and Claire Llewellyn. The three, described as seasoned waterwheel enthusiasts, donned waders and worked together to free and repair the wheel. Mr Llewellyn said: 'Thank goodness we had enough in store to do the job.' The repairs were completed within a couple of days.
The wheel's paddles, known as floats, are made from Greenheart, a South American hardwood highly valued for its durability in wet conditions. Greenheart timber can last up to 50 years submerged, making it ideal for waterwheels and sea defences. The wheel is now turning once more at weekends, continuing a tradition of more than 37 years at the mills.
How it is being reported
- 200-year-old waterwheel repaired after broken paddle jams historic wheelMerton Abbey Mills’ 200-year-old waterwheel is turning again after a broken paddle and viewing platform window caused a dramatic breakdown on October 15.Croydon Guardian · 27 Oct, 14:00
- 200-year-old waterwheel repaired after broken paddle jams historic wheelMerton Abbey Mills’ 200-year-old waterwheel is turning again after a broken paddle and viewing platform window caused a dramatic breakdown on October 15.This Is Local London · 27 Oct, 14:00
In this story: Merton Abbey Mills · River Wandle · Steve Llewellyn · Claire Llewellyn · Ron Newsham
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