A developer has been chosen to transform Abingdon's Old Gaol, but the company's identity, how much it has offered to pay for the 200-year-old building and its proposals all remain a closely guarded secret.

The executive of the Vale of White Horse District Council has confirmed it has selected a "winner" from an undisclosed number of short-listed bidders.

A deal is not expected to be concluded until February or March. Attempts under the Freedom of Information Act to find details have been refused on the grounds of confidentiality.