Managers of Stratford’s historic House Mill have made a major bid to realise their long-held dream of developing their own power supply, and share, by generating hydro-electricity.

They are chasing a �100,000 award on offer in a competition promoting renewable energy. This week the River Lea Tidal Mill Trust urged the public to support their application and get it into the next round of the bidding process. The deadline is June 30.

The trust own and manage the Grade I listed mill, which is believed to be the largest surviving tide mill in the world. It dates from 1776 and replaces earlier mills on the site, going back to the Domesday Book. It is widely regarded as a “hidden gem”,

Following the restoration of the fabric of the building in the 1990s the trust – all volunteers – are now hoping to restore the mill machinery into working order. There are four water wheels of varying ages and these, in conjunction with new technology placed outside in the river bed, will combine to produce sufficient energy for the equivalent of 370 homes. The aim is to share in and around Three Mill Island.

A Heritage Lottery Grant has been secured but the trust still seek �1.6million in match funding.

* More information on www.energyshare.com/house-mill