'Weird and wonderful' ideas for historic club

The Delph Club threatened with closure.

MORE than 10 potential purchasers have attended open viewings of a piece of Saddleworth history which goes to auction at the month end.

And the auctioneer handling the sale of the 150-year-old Delph Club says the building has attracted nationwide interest from would-be buyers.

Last year a letter to members and villagers from the club committee warned unless new and additional uses could be found the premises would have to be sold.

The club is a respected venue for community activities, sports and events but the committee and trustees struggled to find a formula to produce a sustainable performance at or above break-even figure.

And despite a last ditch offer by a team of enthusiasts to work for free to keep the club's doors open, the decision was finally taken earlier this year to sell the imposing three-storey building in Gartside Street.

Henry Burbidge, himself a club member and local property professional, will conduct the auction at the club on September 29.

He said: "After only three open viewings dates we have had more than 10 potential purchasers attend the viewings.

"The auction has attracted attention from people all over the country with many weird and wonderful ideas that could benefit the community.

"We have had a number of pre-auction offers, however the committee and trustees are still intent on the auction taking place at the club itself."

"I will be conducting the auction and I am confident that it will sell on the night," he added.

"There are only two open viewing times left so people need to be quick and contact me."

Oldham and Saddleworth Parish councillor Nicola Kirkham, who has used the club since childhood, will be attending the auction. "I feel sad about the club closure," she said.

The auctioneers guide price for the building is £175,000 and the property has a large function room, two bars, toilet facilities and a small kitchen area.

There is a rear yard with access and a wooden staircase and escape route from the first floor. There is also a single garage onsite.

Remaining viewing dates are: September 22, 7pm-8pm; September 25,3pm-4pm.

Contact Henry Burbidge on 07929 191472 or henryburbidge@gmail.com.

The auction takes place at The Delph Club at 7.30pm on September 29.