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UNIQUE WATER WHEEL TO GENERATE A BUZZ IN DALES SCHOOLS
Gayle Mill, an iconic, restored 19th century sawmill in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, has taken delivery of a unique model of a water wheel and turbine made by specialists at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI). 
Gayle Mill, which was once rescued from total dereliction with the help of BBC2’s Restoration programme, can now take these outstanding models, built by MOSI’s expert technicians, into schools to help teach local children about the mechanics and sustainability of power generated by water.
Made from transparent coloured Perspex the model shows water flowing through the water wheel and turbine. It enables children to see all the moving parts and demonstrates to them the effect of different configurations on efficiency and power generation. Removable ramps and a power gauge enable children to see the differing power outputs from over-shot, under-shot and breast-shot water wheels.
William Lambert, Chairman of the Gayle Mill Trust, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive the model replica as it is the first time specialists from Museum of Science and Industry have built interactive models for use outside of their museum.
“This is a great opportunity for children, especially those attending schools in isolated areas, who may not be able to get to the Mill for a while to experience its special story and unique history.”
The model has been designed to be mobile so that Gayle Mill can take it to children in local schools, as part of an exciting and hands-on presentation about specific elements of Gayle Mill that link to the national curriculum.
This eagerly anticipated model was specially commissioned by Gayle Mill as part of a new Heritage Education and Skills Training Project for school children in the Yorkshire Dales.
Gayle Mill was originally powered by a 22 foot diameter over-shot water wheel. It now has three working water turbines from 1879, 1920 and 2006 respectively, which use their power to generate electricity and drive wood working machinery.
Teachers can arrange for a free demonstration of the model in school before planning a visit to Gayle Mill. During a visit pupils will take part in activities inspired by Gayle Mill’s power generation, working activities and social history.
To arrange a tour please contact Samantha Belcher, Gayle Mill’s Education Coordinator, by calling 01969 667320 or emailing her at samantha.belcher@gaylemill.org.uk.
Gayle Mill Trust would like to thank the Campaign to Protect Rural England who generously funded the construction of the models, as part of the LEADER funded Heritage Education and Training Project based at Gayle Mill.
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The new guide book, “The Gayle Mill Story” has been launched for the start of Gayle Mill’s 2011 visitor season and can be obtained from Gayle Mill or Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes. The extensive information within the “The Gayle Mill Story” gives many insights into the Mill’s history and provides a superb complement to a guided tour around the Mill. 
