ST JOHN Ambulance has rejected Camelford Town Council's bid to purchase the St John hall, despite the charity's recognition of the council's desire to retain the building as a community asset.

Lengthy discussions regarding the sale of the building, located on Clease Road, took place at the town council meeting on May 7 following reports from the public and councillors about its importance to the town.

Cllr Rob Rotchell led an item which discussed the pros and cons of purchasing the historic ambulance station, clarifying that the hall would not be 'money-making' but instead, viewed as a community asset.

The guide price for the building, which was being sold by sealed bid, was set at £45,000 — although councillors recognised that much higher amounts would be submitted.

St John Ambulance agreed to extend the deadline to receive bids in order for the council to discuss and formulate an offer.

At the meeting, an initial proposal was made by Cllr Ken Harris to bid £75,000, but then an amendment was made and unanimously supported by councillors to enter a higher bid of £80,000.

However, St John Ambulance rejected the offer for being too low, although the organisation recognised that the continued community use of the site did hold weight.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.