Former church and home to Wolves legend goes on sale for £1.4m

The imposing 19th century St Mark's Church building in Chapel Ash has been empty since finance firm Torquil Clark left there in 2013.

It is being marketed by estate agents Bulleys, who say there has been 'strong interest' in the Grade II listed property.

The church closed its doors to worshippers in 1978 and was used as offices by Torquil Clarke for around 20 years.

From 1898 to the 1920s the onsite vicarage was the family home of the Reverend Kenneth Hunt, an FA Cup winner with Wolves who played for England and also won an Olympic gold medal.

The Rev Hunt turned out for Wolves from 1907-1920 and scored the opening goal in a 3-1 victory over Newcastle United in the 1908 cup final. That same year he was part of the England team that won the men's football tournament at the London Olympics.

The church is one of Wolverhampton's 'blue plaque' buildings, recognising its significance in the city's history.

Now the private firm that owns the 14,675 sq ft (1,363 sq m) site has put it up for sale or lease for possible commercial use.

Bids are being sought in the region of £1.4m for the freehold, while the leasehold can be bought for £125,000 per year.

Noel Musket, senior partner at Bulleys, said: "It's fair to say the building is exceptional in terms of its quality. When you walk in it has got that wow factor.

"There has already been strong interest in the property and we envisage being able to make an announcement in the near future."

The site also features a car park with 40 spaces. Any future uses would be subject to planning permission.

The interior of the building has been converted onto office space but still contains many traditional features.

An eight-person passenger lift has been installed across the building's three floors.

St Mark's was built in 1848 by CW Orford and has long been considered a city landmark as it can be clearly seen from Queen Square.