A CONVERTED church house which is believed to have once served as a village school is set to be auctioned.

St Mary’s, in Derwen, is thought to be dated before the 17th century when it could have been a parish stable. The two-storey property stands within the churchyard of St Mary’s Church in the village, about six miles north of Corwen, with the original local stonework.

Estate agents Jones Peckover said that the large openings at the south and north of the property indicate previous use as a horse and carriage hearse house or lychgate, from which funerals would proceed directly into the main church yard.

The property will be up for sale at the Brookhouse Mill, Denbigh on September 24.

It is described by the estate agents as an “unusual yet characterful property” that has scope for a studio premises or even a holiday let, subject to planning permission.

Pedestrian access across the churchyard to the church house will be provided via the tarmacked paths already laid.

The upper storey of the property is reached by an external staircase beneath the roof which was restored in the early 20th century. The upper storey provided a parish room and it is believed to have once served as a village school.

The upper room also benefits from a small fireplace and it has a small kitchen area connected to mains water and electricity.

Another lot to be auctioned on September 24 is the 12.75-acre land adjoining Bryn Glas, near the A525 in Trefnant, which includes woodland forming part of the former railway track.

It is described by Jones Peckover as "an excellent parcel of agricultural land" which has three paddocks and mains water supply. It is also close to residential developments, providing future development potential.

Further information about the lots and the auction are available from Jones Peckover on 01745 812127.