YouTubers who explored derelict Barrow pub insist 'we're not criminals'

The former Bar Continental, which sits on the 'House of Lords' site in Barrow, remains derelict following a major fire in 2017.

The two friends published a video of themselves exploring the Abbey Road building on their YouTube channel Magic Magnets.

They said they were interested in the history of the building and have insisted they were not committing any offences.

One member of the group said: "It's a pastime - we're not criminals.

"We didn't break in. We gained access through an already open door.

"We film these buildings so other people don't have to come in.

"It's Barrow's history."

The YouTubers have also shared videos of themselves exploring a derelict manor house in Urswick. 

They also share finds from magnet fishing, in which people hunt for metal submerged in water using magnets.

Many so-called urban explorers share photos and videos taken inside abandoned buildings online.

People have been warned not to enter derelict buildings themselves.

Councillor Bill McEwan previously warned of potentially deadly consequences of entering the House of Lords site.

"I can't stress enough how important it is that people keep out," he said.

"If people are going into that wrecked building they are putting themselves at risk.

"My advice to people is to keep away and don't enter a derelict building - especially that one.

"It's a dangerous site.

"Keep clear, don't go in the buildings and save your life."

There are plans to perform 'urgently necessary' works on the site in Abbey Road, which is privately owned.

Barrow Council is threatening to take enforcement action against the owner of the House of Lords site but is preparing to take on the repairs itself.

The council has tendered a contract worth up to £150,000 in a search for a building company to take on the work.

In the last five years nearly £50,000 of public money has been spent on scaffolding and other costs, according to data obtained by The Mail.