AN iconic Bury mill, which was at the heart of the town's cotton industry in its heyday, is undergoing a new lease of life as it celebrates a landmark 110th anniversary.

The distinctive Pilot Mill, located in the town's Alfred Street, was originally built in 1905 and served as a cotton spinning mill and was a major employer in Bury. It was owned by Lancashire Cotton Corporation in the 1930s and later Courtaulds.

In 1962, it was taken over by luggage firm Antler and for many years served as a manufacturing site for the firm before production was ultimately transferred abroad.

But early in 2013, Antler closed the five-story building with the loss of 46 jobs after a decision to relocate to London. At that time, the future of the mill was uncertain.

However, thanks to Baum Trading, owned by Whitefield man and managing director David Weidenbaum and co-director Nandas Varsani, Pilot Mill continues to play an important role in the town's business community.

Baum bought the mill for just under £1 million as part of the company's plans to generate up to 100 jobs at the site. The proposals included eight starter units for fledgling businesses.

Baum, importers of ready-made garments and fashion accessories, transferred 30 of its 50-strong workforce from its mill in Oldham to Bury following the relocation of its warehousing and logistics operations as well as its Metzuyhan online business.

Baum has made considerable investment in refurbishing the building. Work has included a solar array on the roof of the 240,000 sq ft mill.

Today, Pilot Mill is home to several companies, embracing The Pilot Mill Outlet, CM Joinery & Shopfitters, Epic Health, Guy Darrells Ltd, Metzuyan Baum Trading Ltd and Axiom Displays.

After 110 years, the well-known Bury mill has a new and significant future ahead.