THE Spirit of Teignmouth building has been sold on internet auction site e-bay for £57,100. The controversial boat shed that houses the 68ft trimaran set for a round-the-world sailing bid and visitor centre has to be off The Den by the end of February. Skipper Simon Chalk put it up on the web-based auction room last week and bids closed on Sunday. It has been bought by The Morris Leslie Group from Perth, Scotland. It supplies fast and affordable accommodation among a range of activities that also includes plant, machinery and vehicle auctions, property, storage and transport. The sale attracted 57 bids, with a sharp increase in bids at the last minute. Setting up on The Den cost about £300,000 but the bidding went beyond the undisclosed reserve price and Mr Chalk said it went 'for the right kind of money.' The price includes the cost of taking the structure down. It will be a relief to some residents who voiced concern that the building could become permanent. Amanda Claridge, project manager at Spirit of Teignmouth, said: 'I hope that this will put aside fears that this building was going to stay put. It's purchase is a sure sign that it will be going,' she said. She said the boat build was going full steam ahead. Work has begun on moulds for the outriggers and next in line is the moulding for the cabin deck. 'It is taking shape more and more every day,' she said. A bingo fundraiser evening is being held at the Spirit of Teignmouth building on Friday, September 16. Doors open at 7pm, eyes down at 8pm. A licensed bar and food will be available.
