The winds of change were blowing for a historic Hampshire landmark this morning.

A two-year restoration project at Bursledon Windmill began with its huge wooden sails being carefully detached with a crane.

The work is being carried out to replace the windmill's 25ft-long wind shaft, which has begun to rot.

Hampshire County Council, who own the windmill, is not taking any chances with the historic building - as the previous wind shaft was blown off during 1987's famous storm.

It is hoped the windmill will be back to full working condition in time for its 200th birthday in 2014.

Area curator, Tom de Wit, said: "When it all goes back together for its 200th birthday, it's going to look fantastic and certainly fit for another half century."