SHOP owners Brian and Barbara Humphrey are off on a trip round the world after selling their business.

The couple have retired after 31 years running the Spar in West Road, Wiveliscombe.

Mr and Mrs Humphrey relocated from Sussex in 1985 and having been made redundant chose to buy the convenience store to raise and support their family while building on their past professional experience.

The sale to a new buyer, a regional growing multiple operator, took just six weeks after an offer was accepted.

William Trott, business agent in commercial property speicalist Christie and Co’s Exeter office, said: "The speed of the sale demonstrates what a successful business the current owners had built up over the years.

"The convenience store market is still an attractive one in the South West, for both corporate operators and lifestyle business seekers, with remote village locations with little competition particularly appealing to many.

“We wish Brian and Barbara a happy retirement and all the best in their plans to travel the world.”

The couple have thanked all their customers and wished the new owners the best of luck.