The Old Post Office was eyed up by Andrew Flintoff to start his own hotel

One of Preston’s most famous sons tabled an offer to buy one of the city’s most iconic buildings.

Andrew ‘Freddie’ Flintoff, a Freeman of the city and England’s Ashes hero, has revealed he tried to turn the Old Post Office in Birley Street into a hotel.

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Flintoff, who represented Lancashire and England at cricket, tweeted his query about the future of the building.

He said: “Had plans two years ago to turn the Post Office building to a four star hotel rejected. Would be operation now but it’s still empty Preston Council.”

He went on to say: “Just wondering what’s happening with it Preston Council.”

Related: Preston’s Old Post Office poised to become a hotel

The building, which is understood to have three bidders vying to transform it into a hotel, has been used for a number of temporary events in recent years.

Best of Britannia North has used the building, which is grade II listed, for its exhibition for the last two years.

Inside the Old Post Office for Best of Britannia North

Preston City Council confirmed it has received an expression of interest from the England cricketing hero turned TV presenter.

A spokeswoman said: “Multiple parties have expressed interest in the Old Post Office Building. As a result we have followed standard and open procurement process by appointing a third party agent to conduct a marketing exercise and invite formal applications. Applications are still being considered, but we are currently unable to comment on the applications themselves.

“While Mr Flintoff did express interest in the building, no formal application was received.”

Related: Heritage expert warns council it must maintain its historic buildings

It is understood the city council is to announce who has won the bid to convert the building into a hotel in the coming weeks, with a smaller boutique chain due to be unveiled as the preferred bidder.

What do you think of Flintoff’s comments? Would you have stayed in Freddie’s hotel? Let us know your views in the comments below