A CLOSING date has been set for potential bidders of a historic house linked to JM Barrie's inspiration for Peter Pan.

The centre for children's literature in Dumfries, Moat Brae, will close to potential buyers at 12 noon on October 3.

The author and playwright J.M Barrie is believed to have befriended the children residing at Moat Brae while studying at nearby Dumfries Academy.

His visits, particularly the time spent in the gardens, have been eluded to have inspired the world-famous children's novel. 

The former visitor centre, which is being marketed by Shepherd Chartered Surveyors, served as a private nursing home for most of the 20th century before closing in 1997 and falling into disrepair.

In 2009, the property was saved from demolition and reopened as a visitor centre in 2019 after a multi-million-pound redevelopment project.

Despite the significant investment, the centre announced its closure in August this year.

In a statement, Moat Brae Peter Pan Trust said: "It is with a heavy heart that we announce the imminent closure of the Peter Pan Moat Brae Trust and Visitor Centre from Friday 23rd August 2024.

"We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the staff, volunteers, members and many supporters of the Trust for their commitment in bringing the magic of books and storytelling to life for the thousands of visitors who have passed through the doors.

"Every possible effort and option has been explored by the trustees and staff of the Moat Brae Peter Pan Trust, therefore it is with deep sadness that we announce the end of operations."

In an interview with the BBC, Joanna Lumley, the Absolutely Fabulous star and patron of the trust, said she was 'heartbroken' that the Moat Brae had closed its doors. 

Purchase offers are currently being invited.