A BLACKPOOL windmill may finally be opened to the public following a meeting between campaigners and Blackpool Council.

Little Marton Mill, on Preston New Road, could open next May for two "heritage days" as a result of a meeting at Blackpool Town Hall between Friends of Little Marton Mill, council officials and councillors.

Campaigners had argued that the mill, used as storage for local Scout groups, was entrusted to the townsfolk so it could be preserved and kept open for them. Previously the council had said that open days were unlikely but requests from interested members of the public who wanted to see inside would be considered.

Shirley Currie, a founder member of the Friends campaign group, said: "I am very happily surprised.

"Obviously the council have to ask the permission of the Scouts, and find somewhere we can store the stuff. I just want people go and see all the hard work that was put into the mill. We are waiting with bated breath."

The meeting also touched on the future of a bronze plaque stored inside the mill. It carries a dedication to Shirley's grandfather Allen Clarke, author of Fylde history classic Windmill Land.

John Shaw, the council's head of technical services, said the plaque was locked inside because of fears it would be stolen or vandalised, but the two parties had now agreed that a replica plaque could be displayed instead.

He added the council would now approach heritage organisation North West Mills Group. "We are going to see if they wish to be involved to open Little Marton windmill.

They will provide the supervision and they are covered by."