A LANDMARK building has been handed over to conservationists in a move they say will make it safe forever.

City of York Council has rubber-stamped the sale of the 19th Century de Grey Rooms and de Grey House, in the centre of the city, to York Conservation Trust.

Philip Thake, the trust's chief executive, said: "We are absolutely thrilled to have the building in our portfolio.

"It ranks alongside the Assembly Rooms as one of our prestige properties and we know now that it is safe forever for the people of York.

"Now, we want to make sure that they have use of it. It's a beautiful building and should be enjoyed by as many people as possible."