AN unusual building in the heart of one of the region's cities is to take on new life as a weekly antiques market to rival London's Portobello Road.

The majestic Vane Tempest Hall, in Durham City, has had a chequered history dating back to the 1860s since then it has been home to a number of Army units and even doubled as a smallpox hospital.

But now this architectural gem - the only surviving militia building of its kind in County Durham - is to be the setting of the regular Saturday sales.

Expert furniture restorers Malcolm McNicholas and Colin Elliott, who are preparing to launch the venture, believe Durham's first Antiques Flea Market will attract interest from all over the region.

Mr Elliott has a furniture restoration workshop at the barracks and both he and Mr McNicholas are determined to provide a permanent platform for some of the best antique bargains around.

The pair believe the Vane Tempest venue is perfect for the wide range of goods on sale which will include Victoriana, militaria, jewellery, kitchenalia, toys, general furnishings, china and cards.

The pair are convinced the market will quickly prove as inviting an attraction as its Portobello Road counterpart.

"We want to present a wide range of interesting furnishings and curios, give traders the chance to do business and provide the public with a wealth of expert advice," said Mr Elliott.

Mr McNicholas said: "You don't need to be a trader to have a stall.

"If anyone has any antiques or curio items they want to sell, we would invite them bring them along.''

Unlike Portobello Road, the Vane Tempest market will not be dependent on the weather, with all the stalls housed indoors in a comfortable setting. There will also be refreshments and facilities for the disabled.

The first market will be held on Saturday, February 22 when traders can set up from 7am to 3pm and the public will be admitted between 8am and 3pm.

There are still some spaces left for stallholders who in the first month will be charged just £10 for an unlimited space.

Anyone wishing to reserve a space can contact Mr McNicholas on 07733 132680 or Mr Elliott on 07961 022639.