Parts of Dippin Lodge date back to the 15th century

Ron Stewart advertised Dippin Lodge, on the isle of Arran, as the perfect home for a "privacy-seeking celebrity with impeccable taste".

However, the adverts - placed in satirical magazine Private Eye - went on to warn that this ruled out people like Geri Halliwell, Elton John and Victoria Beckham.

Bob Brass of Arran Estate Agents, which was handling the sale, said the adverts had sparked a huge amount of interest.

"It was down to the owner's droll sense of humour, which was why the adverts were placed in Private Eye," he said.

"It had the desired effect, but unfortunately from my point of view it has sold and the publicity was not really required."

The 50-acre estate is home to the Duke of Hamilton's former hunting lodge.

Cilla Black was told not to apply

The list of celebrities told not to think about putting in an offer for the property in the Private Eye adverts included Heather Mills, Cilla Black, Rod Stewart, Mick Hucknall and Simon Cowell.

Even Wee Jimmie Krankie was ruled out as a prospective owner.

Mr Brass said the aim had been to keep the media circus away from the island, off the Ayrshire coast.

"We have a lot of celebrities who come here and have a quiet holiday without too much hassle.

"That's the way we want it to continue, whether they are owners or holidaymakers.