A RATHER unusual home in Swanage is being opened up for public view before being put up for sale later this year.

The historic Old Water Tower, a Grade II-listed building dating back to 1886, was converted into a five-bedroom dwelling by its current owner Dave George.

He told the Daily Echo: “We’ve decided to hold an open day to allow the general public the opportunity to have a brief look around and enjoy the views from the roof.”

Mr George hopes visitors will donate at least £5, with all the proceeds to be divided between Swanage RNLI Lifeboat, Swanage Hospital and Swanage Town Band.

The tower on Purbeck Terrace Road was built by George Burt, nephew of John Mowlem.

Mr George explained: “George Burt wanted Swanage to have a supply of piped water and gas, and the small carved lettering on the front panel of the tower refers to various acts of parliament pertaining to Swanage Gas and Water supply.”

During the Second World War the building was requisitioned by the war department to be used as either a machine gun post or a lookout.

“We believe that the carved lettering was filled in with cement at this time to prevent easy recognition of the location by enemy aircraft,” said Mr George.

Between the end of the war and its conversion to a five-bedroom home in the early 1990s, the tower served as a storehouse for various large items, such as vintage motorcycles.

Mr George said: “The 45ft high tower originally contained two lead-lined tanks, holding 5,737 and 22,000 gallons respectively.

“Water was pumped to the tanks from an artesian well at Sunnydale by two eight horsepower gas engines contained in the attached pump room to the south of the tower.

“It is believed that the tower was only used for a few years when it was superseded by a reservoir built in Ulwell.”

The open day takes place on Saturday, May 2, between 10am-12noon and 2-4pm.