A buyer has snapped up Wath Brow Mission church in Cumbria which, in 1948, was captured for eternity by “matchstick men” artist LS Lowry.
The Victorian church had a guide price of £50,000-£70,000 but sold for £99,000 after a bidding war at Auction House Cumbria’s sale last week, held at Carlisle racecourse.
“Lowry was a frequent visitor to this part of Cumbria in the years following the war,” said auctioneer Colin West.
He added. “The church is not listed and does not have planning permission.
“However, there is a letter of comfort from the local authority saying it would consider potential development as long as the famous façade is not altered. The winning bidder plans to turn the building into a private residence.”
