Artists invited to splash out

The studio is for part-time residence only

Bids of more than £175,000 are being considered for an artist's studio that can only be lived in for 10 months of the year.

Vow Cave Studio in Lamorna, west Cornwall, measures just 7.5 yards by 5.5 yards.

But its agents say the retreat attracted a high level of interest from prospective buyers, until midday on Monday when the deadline for offers ended.

The studio contains a galleried bedroom area, shower room and kitchen in addition to its ground floor studio.

'Stimulates minds'

There are also 4.5 acres of land which includes a stream and woodland.

Andrew Miller of property agents Stratton & Holborow said: "It is an unusual property and because it is interesting it stimulates people's minds."

The studio has oil-fired heating and a 12-volt battery supply for lighting.

However, Mr Miller said it was "extremely unlikely" the local planning authority would allow the property to be turned into a year-round dwelling.

The Lamorna Valley has strong historical associations with artists, and is dotted with small studios, workshops and galleries.