BIDDERS got their orders in online when Ilminster’s Bell Inn went under the virtual hammer.

The pub, at 4 High Street, eventually sold for £169,000, well above its freehold guide price of £140,000 to £160,000.

It was among the lots in the fourth auction of 2020 by the regional land and property auctioneers Clive Emson on Thursday June 18, which was held solely online.

As well as a courtyard and car park, the pub has two-bedroom owner/managers’ accommodation together with three bed and breakfast rooms.

Senior auction appraiser David Henwood said: “The number of pubs coming to auction has increased in frequency over recent years.

“The Bell is a well-known pub full of character in a prominent position in Ilminster and offers its new owner a number of options.

“It could easily be resurrected as a commercial venture although there is clear potential for sub-division into a number of properties subject to the necessary consents.”

Britain’s largest independent regional land and property auction house Clive Emson Auctioneers holds a regional auction eight times a year – effectively one every six weeks.

The fourth of its West Country regional auctions in 2020 took place solely online due to Covid-19 precautions, this time with 83 lots – the largest online auction since the firm was established 31 years ago.

The fifth of Clive Emson Auctioneers' regional West Country auctions in 2020 takes place online on Wednesday July 29, 2020. Entries close on Tuesday July 7.

For more information visit cliveemson.co.uk.