Just the ticket -lineside des res is on the right tracks

A disused railway station signal box on Devon's world-famous English Riviera has been bought at auction.

The imposing historic Grade II listed, three floor, rectangular brick and glass fronted signal box, is right on the platform at busy Great Western Railway’s Torre Station on Newton Road in Torquay.

The property, which dates back to when the railway station opened in 1848, was offered by Paul Fosh Auctions as part of its online property sale.

Listed with an auction guide price of £29,000 after eight bids from four potential owners it sold for £32,500.

Sean Roper, of Paul Fosh Auctions, said: "Ahead of the online sale we had a great deal of interest from rail enthusiasts and also from local people in this former signal box and much discussion over its possible future.

“The top floor of the property retained its, now, non-functioning rows of ancient signal levers and handles, a pot-bellied coal-fed stove originating from the age of steam and even a signalman's armchair!

"What made this lot of particular interest, especially I would suggest to rail ‘buffs’, is that the railway line to the English Riviera at Torquay is still very much in use both by tourists and commuters.

"I'd say the property would be just perfect for the avid train spotter or perhaps a holiday home owner who wants to be able to go on a weekend away and simply step from the train platform and be at home.

The former signal box has full planning for conversion to a holiday home. Planning has already been implemented by installing polycarbonate protection on the windows and building regulations have been passed by the local authority.

With its ornate main buildings and intricately designed passenger footbridge the railway station was designated a world heritage site in January 1975.