A FAMILY business, whose four generations have run it for the last 110 years, has finally been sold.

John Brown, 67, said that the time was right and decided to sell the business, Browns Nursery in Corban Lane, Wigginton, after personally being involved for 52 years.

“It was started by my great-grandfather, John, and my grandfather and father (also called John) continued to run it,” said John.

“It was beginning to get hard work and the time has come. The new owner is going to carry on as we ran it,” added John who lives in Huntington.

John had no doubt what he was going to do in his spare time, “rest”, he laughed.

“My partner Maggie and I like to walk, I like my photography, mainly wildlife, and travelling when we can again. We have all sorts planned.

“I certainly won’t get bored.

“People tell me that I’ll be busier once I’ve retired, so the plan is do just that.

“Maggie and I have the same interests, so it will be easy to fill our time.

“I have some very happy memories of the nurseries over the years and will definitely miss the regular customers.

“I’m bound to do.”

John’s brother Chris, and sister-in-law Kathy who worked at the nurseries, have also moved on.

Steve Wright, who lives on Tadcaster Road and has been a regular customer for more than 30 years, said: “It came as a bit of a surprise as I expected them to be there forever-more.

“I, and many others, would like to thank them very much for their dedicated service, and wish them all the best in their retirement.”

The company has been purchased by Thomas Hoogendonk.