A 150-year-old pub in Nelson town centre may have served its last pint unless a buyer can be found.

The Clayton Arms, in Manchester Road, has been empty since earlier this year.

Now the pub, built by Lord Every Clayton in 1863, has been put up for sale with a leasehold price-tag of £215,000.

property agent Paramount Investments said it had already attracted strong interest from entrepreneurs and property developers.

But it would also consider offers from people wanting to bring it back to life as a pub.

Mark Greig, managing director of Paramount, said: “Although we would like to see the Clayton continue as a going concern, it is in a planning class which means it can be converted into flats or other retail uses with minimal recourse to the planning authorities.

“Falling property prices are creating tremendous bargains within the pub market for licensees who know they can respond to the challenges facing the modern trade.

“There has never been a better time to buy a pub. To pick up a pub like this at such a price represents a terrific opportunity – for the right kind of publican.”