RESIDENTS of Silian, near Lampeter, have spoken of their dismay on learning that the old village school – donated by the Crown during the reign of Queen Victoria – is being put up for auction next month.

The move, which has come as a blow to locals who have been campaigning since 2006 to turn it into a community centre, follows Ceredigion County Council’s decision to grant landowners the Crown Estate permission to build up to three houses on the site.

Many residents are ex-pupils and Silian old school, which was formerly used for all manner of social events and is regarded as an integral part of the village’s heritage.

They now expect it to be demolished if the land is sold to developers.

“It is a really sad time for Silian, as all the hard work put in by villagers over the last decade has come to nothing,” resident Nikki Vousen told the Cambrian News.

“It is not good news for the community.”

Former community clerk Mair Spate said the old school’s future had been a major issue locally for many years.

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