Today Melin-Y-Bont, Llanfaelog, has been restored to its former glory and has been named Conversion of the Year in Anglesey's Building Control Awards. One of only a handful of mills operating on both water and wind power, Melin Y Bont had been practically destroyed by fire.

"It was a bit of shock to see what it was like," says Evan A Owen who will collect the coveted award for the work at the gala awards dinner next month.

"Everything inside had collapsed. The beams and floors had gone in the fire, about 40 years ago. What was left of the building was full of rubble."

Owners Bodorgan Estates called Mr Owen in to restore the mill and turn it into holiday accommodation.

He didn't have to travel far. The mill is just a mile away from his yard at Llanfaelog, near Rhosneigr and he had long wondered what it would be like inside.

Mr Owen and his team set about clearing the mill before replacing the integral structure.

What was once charred rubble and dripping beams is now five floors of living space and bedrooms with oak floors and beams. The panelled oak doors were handmade on Anglesey.

"The beams weigh one and a half tonnes, so that was heavy work," Mr Owen recalls. "But the most difficult part was restoring the roof because of its circular shape.

"We had to construct a circular reinforced concrete beam and replace the rafters and feather boards which all had to be tapered to fit. We had a lovely view while we were working up there, though."

There were other challenges too. Internal fixtures had to be made to sit comfortably within circular walls, and all kitchen units individually tailored to fit. Because Melin-Y-Bont is Grade Two listed, the building was rendered with lime and painted with lime wash. All modern fittings such as plastic extractor fans had to be concealed from view.

At the very top, where the windmill mechanism was housed, is now a stylish, top-floor bedroom with a small terrace from its French window.

From here, visitors staying at the mill are given a bird's-eye view of the surrounding landscape and can sleep under a curtain of stars.

"It's one of the most challenging jobs I've done," says Mr Owen, who has been in the business for more than 35 years. "I've never worked on a windmill before - I don't suppose many people have given that there aren't many.

"It was quite an experience. And it's nice to win the award. I feel very proud."

The standard of Evan A. Owen's work far outshone others entered in the same category, says Chris Staddon, Senior Building Control Office for Anglesey County Council.

"Over the years, Evan has consistently carried out good quality work and keeps in close contact with us, letting us know when his buildings are ready for inspection," he says. "This was head and shoulders above the rest this year, especially when you compare what was a just a ruin to what the mill is now.

"The roof and balcony were especially technical and difficult to get right. I think this is only the third windmill conversion we've had in the 12 years I've been here."