A snip, with access through a trapdoor (From Gazette & Herald)

A snip, with access through a trapdoor

ESTATE agent John Holtby was hoping there would not be a rush as prospective buyers came to view the latest one-bedroom property on the market in North Yorkshire.

It's a snip with a reserve price of only £5,000, but with access only through a trapdoor and down a 15ft ladder, it is not your average viewing opportunity.

The "des res" in question is a redundant nuclear bunker, which was built in Pickering at the height of the Cold War in the 1950s, and was designed to accommodate a three-man team.

The bunker is at the summit of an ancient motte in the town.

Commanding views are promised, but residents will have to step outside because the concrete-lined bunker has no windows.

This "residence" includes a 15ft by 7ft 6in living room - also the kitchen, dining area and bedroom - with a little room for the loo to the side.

Anyone interested in the property should log on to the internet auction where it will be sold, on www.ebay.com

Updated: 09:38 Friday, May 23, 2003