Footballer's house on the market - for £4m

5:09pm Tuesday 5th February 2008

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ONE of East Lancashire most glamorous homes has gone on the market for £4 million after footballer Phil Neville decided to sell up.

Everton captain and former England and Manchester United defender Neville has moved from the mansion he shares with wife Julie in Crawshawbooth, Rossendale.

Their impressive home, which is Grade II listed, boasts six bedrooms, a grand reception, billiard room and a cinema room.

There is even a detached four-bedroom staff house included in the sale, which sits in the nine acres of land that the property boasts.

Estate Agents Knight Frank said the property, Sunnyside House, is an "elegant haven in the heart of Rossendale."

The report on the home by the London-based firm said: "This exceptional family house takes full advantage of its elevated setting in exquisite formal grounds.

"Sunnyside House stands majestically in the heart of Rossendale.

"The house has been comprehensively improved by the present owners to a particularly demanding specification over the last five years and is now the epitome of modern day living.

"However, there has been a strong emphasis on retaining the character of this fine listed building with notable features including an exceptional dining room with stalactite ceiling, an imposing panelled drawing room, large living kitchen, four bedroom suites, fitness room and an impressive dressing suite."

The 31-year-old now lives in Manchester with Julie and their children son, Harvey, and daughter, Isabella.

Sunnyside House, which is just off Burnley Road, Crawshawbooth, also features a tennis court and planning permission has been granted for a swimming pool to be built.

Neville grew up in the Rossendale area along with his famous brother Gary, the Manchester United captain.

He has been a popular supporter of the community having donated thousands of pounds to local sporting initiatives including a £25,000 gift towards creating an all weather stadium at Whitaker Park, Rawtenstall.

The family also support several premature baby charities.

Their daughter Isabella was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at 18 months old after being born prematurely.