THERE have been no Christmas carols sung in this old chapel for several years - but the sound of music could be heard in it again.

The turn-of-the-20th-century red brick Methodist Chapel was last used as a place of worship in September 1999, since when it has stood empty, housing only the pulpit and an old fireplace in the vestry.

Now in the build-up to Christmas, The Chapel, at Haughurst Hill in Baughurst, is being sold through estate agents Redwoods with a price guide of £165,000.

The new owner will be buying just a shell but one which has planning permission to be converted into a one-bedroomed home. The conversion plans are being held by Redwoods' Tadley office.

Not only would The Chapel be an unusual Christmas present for someone, but it would also give the enthusiast the chance to create an individual home.

Sally Womersley, assistant manager of the Tadley office, said: "It's creating interest. We are getting a lot of viewings."