A former church is set to be transformed after it is put up for auction next week.

The methodist church, on the corner of Lowther Street and Scotch Street, in Whitehaven, is being sold by SDL Auctions next Thursday, with a guide price of £90,000.

SDL Auctions says it believes the church could be converted into a restaurant, bar, nightclub or residential accommodation.

Commercial valuer Chris Theocharides said: “This is a spectacular Gothic-style Grade II listed building with all the wonderful architectural features you’d expect to see in such a property.

"It’s a landmark building within the town and whether it is converted into business premises or homes, it will continue to make a real statement.

“The restoration of the church should appeal to an ambitious developer with the vision to see its possibilities.

"Currently occupied by pigeons, it’s an extensive building with many different rooms providing a huge amount of versatility.

"It’s an incredible opportunity for an enterprising investor.”

The freehold property has been out of use since 1996 and requires renovation.

However, it retains features such as Gothic style arches, leaded and stained glass windows, wooden panelling and vaulted ceilings.

It was built in 1877 in the late 13th century Gothic style and Copeland Borough Council is keen to see a sympathetic redevelopment of the building.

Mayor of Copeland Mike Starkie said: “I want to see the pride back in Copeland and to celebrate the great achievements which are being made, and encourage others to maximise the potential of their buildings and land.

"This is why I am encouraging property owners to contact Copeland Council for advice on how to renovate their buildings.”

Seller Salim Ismail is also keen to see the property put back into use, after reluctantly abandoning plans to use it to house a branch of his dental practice.

He said: “We had big plans to develop this amazing property but had to put them on the backburner following flooding at our Appleby-in-Westmorland practice.

"We couldn’t see ourselves renovating it for several years so made the tough decision to sell as it would be a shame for it to deteriorate.

“It’s such a beautiful building and I love the attention to detail, with its vaulted ceiling and carved stone faces on each pillar.

"I’m really sorry to see it go but am very keen to see it restored and put to good use.”

The building will be sold via a live-streamed auction from SDL's head office.