BULLDOZERS have moved into the grounds of a former social club as demolition crews begin to tear it down.

Crowds gathered outside the old Burnholme Social Club as workmen started dismantling the 135-year-old building, which will make way for 28 two and three bedroom homes and nine apartments.

The club was once a popular local for hundreds of residents until it became clear the committee could no longer afford its running costs.

However, as part of the new development, a modern club was built in the shadow of its predecessor, and is now said to be flourishing as it continues to welcome new members.

A manager at the club said: "It was a sad day in some ways but as a social community club we are pleased to secure the future in our new building.

"A few members are sad but unfortunately there was no other way but to have this because we couldn't survive.

"We must look forward and carry on.

"There was a lot of happy memories in that club and what people used to do here brought up a lot of laughs and a few tears.

"We've had a considerable influx of members since we moved, around 100, so everything is going well and in the right direction."

York Press:

Councillors approved plans for the new development, known as Heworth Edge, in August 2013.

It has homes priced around £150,000 which were released for sale last year.

The Victorian Gothic-style building was built in 1880 for former Lord Mayor of York, John Bellerby.

The committee were told two years ago they would need to find £500,000 to pay for repairs to the roof, however, the development was deemed to meet York's housing demands and a public meeting about the proposals led to few objections being put forward by residents.