THE MONNOW Valley recording studios at Old Mill House, near Monmouth, little brother to the world-famous Rockfield Studios, is up for sale, writes Keith Fairbank.

Bands including the Manic Street Preachers, the Stereophonics and Pulp have all rehearsed and recorded at the Monnow Valley analogue studio, drawn to its scenic setting and good transport links.

But now it is deemed surplus to requirements compared to its world-famous neighbour and has been put on the market.

According to the brochure, the property is "a period house with renowned recording studios in delightful riverside setting."

Set in two and half acres of land, the 17th century house boasts 7,500 square feet of space. This includes a sitting room, dining room, family room, study, games room, kitchen, eight bedrooms, six shower rooms and four attic rooms - as well as the four recording rooms.

It is added that a purchaser could continue with the current use or secure necessary planning for al-terations. The £690,000 asking price does not include the recording equipment, although an additional figure can be negotiated if the buyer was interested.

Anthony Clay, of Knight Frank estate agents in Hereford, said: "It could work as either a house or a studio. It's more than likely not going to be a studio - but I could be proved wrong."

He reported that around 50 inter-ested parties had come forward to date, although he refused to comment on offers. But he did add: "The aim is to get it away this spring or summer."