A CAMPAIGN to save Watchet's Grade II listed Council Chamber for community use is gathering steam.

The Friends of the Watchet Chamber has been set up and features representatives from the Market House Museum and Watchet Conservation Society, and have the backing of a private bidder, an anonymous local resident.

There have been other offers for the building since it was put up for sale for £65,000 by estate agents Greenslade Taylor Hunt on behalf of Watchet Town Council.

The council recently moved into the renovated Boat Museum and Visitor Centre, but Emma Boulton, who lives opposite the Chamber on Swain Street and started the Friends organisation believes it would be a shame for the historic building to be used as a private concern.

"A bid has been put in by a private resident and it is a good offer, and it gives the only chance to for the building to stay in community use as the council has decided to put it on the market," Mrs Boulton said.

"There is a strong feeling in the town to save this building, it has been here since 1907, it would be a shame to see it turned into a flat or shop.

Following a town council consultation in March, 54 per cent of those who responded said they would like the building maintained for some community use.

Molly Quint, chairman of Watchet Conservation Society said: "It is in a lovely position in the town, I think this is a wonderful building for small meetings, coffee mornings and small organisations and I know the Market House Museum wants to have small exhibitions in here."

Mrs Quint explained that as the building is Grade II listed, no matter whom it is sold to the exterior cannot be altered dramatically and so the appearance of the town will not change.

Town Crier Dave Milton added: "It has always been a gathering place, when processions or dignitaries visited the town they would come here and it carry gravitas.

"I would be apprehensive to see the building change, if it becomes a private concern it will lose its ambience and atmosphere."

Sarah Reed, clerk for the town council, said: "The sale of the building is currently being handled by the commissioned agents Greenslade Taylor Hunt.

"According to their terms of business, the agents plan to market the building for up to three weeks, and then will advise the council on the viability of any offers received within that time.

"The council will then, based on the report, make an informed decision in closed session.

"The council will ensure, as they do when making all decisions, that protocol is followed, and will demonstrate due diligence and best practice in making the decision which will be in the best interests of the community and the town."