THE AA building was lit up from outside for the last time as the company bid farewell the the iconic Basingstoke headquarters.

Fanum House, in Basing View, has been the headquarters of the Automobile Association (AA) for more than 50 years, after the company moved into the building - which was officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II - on November 19, 1973.

The building was regularly lit up throughout its use by the AA and in tribute to this, the tower was once again bathed in light just after 6pm on Tuesday, October 22 for a final time, as a crowd of current and former AA staff gathered to bid farewell to one of Basingstoke's most notable landmarks.

Known as the tallest building between London and New York, Fanum House closed its doors for good after the ceremony.

READ MORE: New toy shop 'can't wait' to open in Festival Place this weekend

AA hold their farewell event at Fanum House as they move to new building around the cornerAA hold their farewell event at Fanum House as they move to new building around the corner (Image: Sarah Gaunt)

A spokesperson for the AA said: "Soon, we will be vacating Fanum House but moving down the road on Basing View to PLANT which is an iconic refurbished Grade II listed building of architectural significance.

"We are delighted that we will be continuing our long and prosperous relationship with Basingstoke despite our decision to vacate Fanum House, our 18-story landmark tower.

Queen Elizabeth II opened the AA building in 1973Queen Elizabeth II opened the AA building in 1973 (Image: AA)

"We are pleased that we have signed the contract on PLANT, Basing View and committed to our future in Basingstoke.

"This move aligns with our ambition to modernise the AA and supports our vision and environmental ambitions.

"This move will be somewhat bittersweet for us, as it marks the end of 50 years at our historic home of Fanum House, but, at the same time it represents a key moment in transforming The AA into a fresh, flexible and modern company."