A MINING landmark building in Camborne is set to attract a rich seam of interest.

The Josiah Thomas Memorial Hall, which was used for many years by Camborne School of Mines, is to be auctioned later this month.

Conservationists have applied to have the 19th-century building listed for its historical and architectural importance.

Camborne's deputy mayor Jean Charman, chairman of the town council's heritage sub-committee, said: "I am frightened that developers will come in and we will end up with just more flats.

"There are so many things it could be used for and I hoped it was something the town council would take on but there wasn't any interest in it."

Unsuccessful attempts have been made by owner Cornwall Council to sell it for up to £200,000.

It is one of 33 lots being sold by the land and property auctioneers Clive Emson on February 23.

The two-storey building, honouring a Cornish miner who became a prominent Australian politician, is lying empty. The freehold site is offered at a guide price of £125,000 to £150,000.

Graham Barton, one of the auctioneers for Clive Emson in the region and a regular on BBC's Homes Under the Hammer TV series, said: "This is a stunning building with a great heritage in a high profile town centre.

"It could be used for commercial or residential purposes."

Also under the hammer is the freehold of a three-storey terrace property at 30 and 30a Cross Street in Camborne.

The building includes a ground-floor space most recently used as a charity shop but currently empty, plus upstairs living accommodation.

The auction takes place at the St Mellion International Resort, near Saltash.