It was the end of an era as a historic Cumbrian hotel many had hoped could be restored was finally flattened.

The Skinburness Hotel, near Silloth, dates back more than 130 years, having been built by Cumbrian architect Charles Ferguson.

But the iconic landmark had stood empty for about a decade.

In that time it had fallen into a state of disrepair, becoming an eyesore and prompting calls for action from residents.

Many had hoped the building - which had a guide price of £250,000 - could be saved, but it failed to attract buyers in several auctions.

In 2006 it was stripped of all valuable fixtures after its former owners were declared bankrupt in 2006.

Then, in 2010, a £3m project to convert the site into a 64-room care home never came to fruition.

Most recently, the site was bought by Northumberland-based DP Contractors. They have been working to demolish the property and now plan to develop it for another use, possibly housing.

Workmen began pulling down the final walls yesterday, marking the end of an era for those with fond memories of the hotel in its glory days.

Several local people have taken to Facebook nostalgia groups to express their sadness at the loss of the building.

Alice Smith said: "Such a sad ending to a beautiful building."

Janet McGreavy said she hoped more of the original features could have been saved.

"Very sinful," she wrote. "I know they have saved some roof tiles but what about all the carved sandstone looks like it's just in the rubble.

"I bet loads of people would love to buy them for their house renovations. Another wonderful building gone," she said.

"The council should have put conditions on them that some of the architecture is used in whatever they build in its place as a monument to its history."

Marion Kenney added: "Sad to see this go.

The firm behind the demolition have however managed to save the building's grand archway, which stood at its entrance.

They hope that it can be reused in some capacity and are inviting people to get in touch with them if they'd like to use it.

Anyone interested can email them on dpcontractors@hotmail.co.uk or call 07768 195350.