was under threat of collapsing.

And the new owner plans to restore the historic building to its former glory.

Knick Knack owner David White yesterday confirmed reports that he had purchased the "Old House'' on North Shore Road in Flatt's from Cromwell Manders.

Last October, Police set up roadblocks and diverted traffic after the derelict building was weakened by heavy rains.

Works and Engineering staff had to removed the roof and had the house examined by structural engineers.

The building was believed to be one of the first buildings in the inlet.

Mr. White said he planned to "totally'' restore the building and added that contractors had already moved in and begun work.

But Mr. White could not say how long the restoration work would take nor how much it would cost.