AN OLD coastguard lookout near Aberdyfi has come up for sale in one of Meirionnydd’s most sought-after areas.

The “dream” beach retreat – formerly used by the Coastguard to keep a watch over the south Meirionnydd coastline has been listed as “a fabulous opportunity to buy the most wonderful location for a picnic or barbecue” by estate agent Welsh Property Services.

Until he passed away at the age of 81 last November, the beach idyll was owned by Tony Helliwell, a former auctioneer who used to invite his children and grandchildren to come share his unique retreat with him on weekends.

Although there is no residential permit to actually live in the hut, Mr Helliwell, who retired to Talybont near the turn of the century – treated the building as an art studio where he used to paint the panoramic vistas and barbecue fish he caught from the sea or from local rivers.

Tony’s daughter, Michelle Helliwell, was loathe to let the property go as she had “fantastic” memories of the lookout but felt the time was right.

“We just want it to go to someone who would love it as much as dad,” she added.

Although there is little precedent for the unusual building sale, the estate agents are hopeful of achieving a five-figure sum for the Lookout.

See the full story in this week’s Meirionnydd edition of the Camrbrian News