Empty hall becomes target for
unwanted macabre sighteers

Now local supporters of Firbeck Hall, near Rotherham, are warning that misguided individuals who have been breaking into the hall wrongly believing it was a former asylum are causing a problem for nearby residents.

In their newsletter, Simon Drohan, chairman of the Friends of Firbeck Hall, said: “I am disappointed to report that Firbeck Hall once again appears to have become a target for unwelcome attention.

“It seems that on several occasions recently, a number of people have gathered to stage break-ins under the guise of ‘urban exploration’ activity.

“Rumours circulating on a number of internet sites appear to inaccurately describe Firbeck Hall as a former asylum. This seems to be encouraging groups of people who have a fascination with such buildings to gather to break in to the hall, which is causing a substantial problem for neighbours and nearby village residents alike.

“The police have attended on several occasions recently, however this response seems to be doing little to deter this most recent spate of activity.”

A spokesman for the Friends said the property was in private hands and, after standing empty for a number of years, there were hopes it could be redeveloped.

The spokesman said the latest “break-in” had happened last week.

Mr Drohan added: “Clearly restoration of the hall would be a significant solution to this problem, and with that in mind we look forward to being able to bring news of a formal planning submission in due course.”

Firbeck Hall was built in 1594 by William West and was formerly the home of 19th century architect and writer Henry Gally Knight.

In 1935 it was opened as a country club. At the outbreak of the Second World War, the hall was used by Sheffield Royal Infirmary and the Royal Air Force.