IME Property has revealed it has completed the sale of the former dolls museum in Musselburgh which will see it transformed into a headquarters building by a local technology firm.

The church, which dates back to the 19^th century, was on the market at offers over £275,000 and transacted for “well in excess” of the asking price at a formal closing date in March.

The sale adds to an already intriguing history for the iconic B-listed building which was opened as a dolls museum by the Alongi family in 2004, exhibiting a range of unique collections.

However, it closed around four and a half years ago and was eventually put on the market by selling agents IME Property in December last year.

But now the Musselburgh-based technology firm’s decision to acquire the property is expected to lead to a major investment in refurbishing the property with the retention of skilled jobs and creation of new roles in the town.

IME Property’s managing director, Iain Mercer, commented: “The Alongi family entrusted us to dispose of this significant asset on their behalf and we are delighted with the outcome.

“It is a magnificent piece of 19^th-century architecture which attracted interest from a raft of potential end users. To see it end up in the hands of an ambitious local company is, I think, a win-win for our client and the town,” added Mr Mercer.

The  church, which was built in 1843 by renowned architect R.Thornton Shiells, stands on the High Street directly at the junction of Bridge Street and has a central tower with clock face on each side.