THE site of the former Merry Harriers public house on the Blackdown Hills, near West Buckland, has been put up for sale at more than £250,000.

The. 2.5 acres of land at Forches Corner, Clayhidon, is described by Taunton estate agent Robert Cooney as suitable for ‘potential development/business opportunity’.

The historic pub, thought to date from the 15th century, was damaged by two mystery fires five months apart in 2016.

The first fire happened in July, just days after it was suddenly closed by its then landlord, who quoted ‘unforeseen health reasons’ for selling it.

Then, in the Christmas week, the premises were almost totally destroyed when a second blaze ripped through it. The ruins were demolished in March 2017.

Planning permission was later granted for the Merry Harriers to be rebuilt and for the outbuildings still surviving to be demolished to allow a 23-space car park to be created. However, the planning consent expired in November of last year.

Now Robert Cooney is asking for offers in excess of £250,000 for the derelict side.