The Altrincham headquarters of the oldest vegetarian organisation in the world is in line for a transformation after the site was sold.

The Vegetarian Society is on the move to the city centre after more than 50 years at its Parkdale base on Dunham Road.

As the oldest vegetarian organisation in the world, with a history of more than 175 years, it is seen as the authority on the lifestyle.

It is responsible for campaigning on issues like Vegetarian Week and licensing of vegetarian products and vegan products across the UK.

Its chief executive Richard McIlwain, who was appointed to the role around two years ago, said the move to the city centre was on the cards for some time.

He said: "Parkdale served the society well for over 50 years, with events and functions held in the grounds. However, times change and like a lot of organisations, a lot of our staff now work from home.

"We've taken the opportunity to locate back into Manchester at a smaller site, handy for public transport and capable of hosting our teaching kitchen, which we're excited to be launching in the New Year."

Parkdale itself has a history of more than 150 years and a lot of features from the Victorian Period remain, including the doorways and the windows.

It is not listed, but it is in a conservation area, and any transformation is subject to the approval of planning permission.

Ned Brooks, associate director at Savills, said: “We are pleased to complete this sale on behalf of the Vegetarian Society to facilitate their relocation.

“Parkdale’s location and the fact that the building lends itself to a single-unit or multi-unit conversion meant we had interest from a number of buyers.”

For information on the Vegetarian Society go to vegsoc.org.

This article was written by Jack Tooth. To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.