Several potential buyers made offers for historic Ilkley mansion Heathcote, it has been revealed.

Estate agent Dacre, Son & Hartley says around half a dozen offers were made for the Edwin Lutyens-designed property on Kings Road, before a preferred buyer was selected.

The name of the preferred buyer has yet to be revealed, but it is believed the deal could be completed in days.

Ilkley firm NG Bailey formerly occupied the Grade II listed Heathcote, which is set in its own walled grounds with ornate gardens and cottage outbuildings.

The company, based at another landmark Wharfedale property, Denton Hall, near Ilkley, moved out of Heathcote earlier this year.

Originally Heathcote went on the market with a guide price of £2.95m, but according to Dacre’s website, the current price tag is just above £2.5m.