A HISTORIC building in Darwen has been named as one of the most unusual listed places of 2016.

The Olde England Kiosk in Sunnyhurst Woods has been included in a list of 21 most surprising and lesser known protected sites by Historic England.

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The venue was built to mark the accession to the throne and coronation of King George V and was given Grade II status earlier this year.

Lindsey Chapman, who runs the venue with her husband Paul, said she was delighted for the recognition.

She said: “It is such a beautiful building that has so much character.

“It’s been going so well since we took over five years ago and we are busy most of the time.

“The woods is very picturesque and that’s not any places like it Darwen.

“It’s wonderful for the site to get this recognition.”

More than 1,000 places have been given protected status across England in 2016.

Other sites featured in the list of unusual spots included the White Lion pub in Westhoughton, the water chute at Wicksteed Park in Kettering and the Clayhall Royal Navy Cemetery Chapel in Gosport, Hampshire.

Alan Brocklebank, a member of the Friends of Sunnyhurst Woods, said the building meant a lot to him.

He said: “I think it’s fantastic that the building has been recognised in this way because it is a wonderfully unusual place in the heart of Darwen.

“It means a lot to me because I had my wedding reception there 43 years ago.

“It definitely deserves this recognition and I am delighted.”

The Olde England Kiosk was built for the community in 1912 and has become a popular venue for weddings and other family celebrations over the years.

Roger Bowdler, director of listing at Historic England, said: “Over 1,000 places have been added to the list in 2016, ensuring the most important sites across the country are recognised and protected.

“Historic England strives to keep the list rich and relevant so that the best of our heritage can continue to be enjoyed and understood for future generations.”

Cllr Brian Taylor said: “The kiosk is a real asset to Darwen and is a beautiful building.

“It is brilliant that it has been given this credit.”