A much loved former Norwich nightclub is still available for sale after it failed to reach the guide price at auction– although it is hoped a deal could be done soon.

Samson and Hercules House, in Tombland is one of the best-known properties in the city.

Its main entrance is flanked by the city's much-loved statues of Samson and Hercules and its upper floors have been converted into residential accommodation.

The ground floor and basement, which have planning consent for use as a restaurant or caf� and may be suitable as an office, were up for auction yesterday.

Arnolds had set a guide price of between �150,000 and �175,000 for the 3,700 sq ft premises, but the property failed to reach that mark – although there was interest in the building.

Craig Knights, Arnolds auction manager, said: 'We did have interest in the property and we've got ongoing discussions with a couple of people who are interested in purchasing and someone who's potentially interested in leasing it as well.'

Meanwhile, the historic office buildings in Old Bank of England Court, in Queen Street, also went under the hammer at the same auction. The premises had a guide price of between �225,000 and �245,000 and received a telephone bid during the auction.