IT was the end of an era yesterday, as demolition crews moved in to start pulling down a well-known old factory.

Seabrook House in Allerton, where many a packet of crisps was produced over the years, is being levelled to make way for a new Aldi store.

The derelict factory has been standing empty since Seabrook Crisps moved out in 2004, and has been plagued by vandalism.

Last year, a blaze started by arsonists destroyed the third floor and roof of the derelict building.

Ward councillor Malcolm Sykes (Con, Thornton and Allerton) spoke of his relief that the building would finally be going.

He said: "As far as I’m concerned, I’m absolutely delighted. I’ve supported this application at committee and as far as I’m concerned this is good news for the people of Allerton.

"It is getting rid of of an awful, ugly site on Allerton Road that has been like that for 10 years.

"I’m surprised no children have been killed in there."

Seabrook Crisps is now based at Duncombe Street, Bradford.

German supermarket chain Aldi hope to have a new 1,550sq m supermarket and car park open on the site by this time next year.