For those with a taste for the macabre, a unique property opportunity has arisen – a former 1930s mortuary in Needham Market, Suffolk. The Old Mortuary of Lion Lane is listed with a guide price of £60k to £80k and will go under the hammer on March 26.

The building, which served the local community during the Second World War and doubled as an air raid shelter, is described as a ‘truly distinctive property with history and character’.

It features a bare concrete floor, two sets of double doors and two large rooms, one of which is believed to have been the embalming room.

Established in 1937 by the Gipping Rural District Council, it’s unclear when its use as a mortuary ceased. The listing suggests potential uses could include a workshop, commercial premises or even an unconventional home or holiday let, subject to approval.

Terry Lawrence, town mayor and Mid Suffolk District councillor, welcomed the news, stating: “It’s very positive that someone might be prepared to take the site on and do something with it.”

He added that any plans would need to respect the character of the surrounding area and the nature of the town.