BRITAIN’S oldest rose farm is set to close its doors for good today after more than two centuries of trading.
In a social media post Cants of Colchester, based on the old A134 between Colchester and Great Horkesley, said it would be closing its business on Friday, September 29.
Established in 1765 the business is more than 250 years old and is still a family firm run by direct descendants of the founder.
Earlier this month the Gazette had reported how the firm had sent an email to customers announcing its “regretful closure”, citing quiet and difficult times in the industry.
A statement reads: “It is with regret to inform you that we will be closing our doors for the final time at the end of September.
“It has not been an easy decision to make, but business has become a lot quieter, and the directors are getting too long in the tooth to carry on.
“The rose industry is a difficult industry at the best of times, but where we are situated, with no passing trade and customer's struggling to find us, these factors have had a big impact.
“Thank you to all of our loyal customers who have stayed with us and supported us over the years.”
The rose growers have typically sold a variety of products, from flowers and plants to climbers, feeds and fungus fighters and more.
The business also offers expert advice with planning a rose garden to helping select the correct rose for a particular spot.
Due to the forthcoming closure, the business is now holding a special closing down sale.
A spokesman added: “We have a small selection of roses left which can be purchased online or in our nursery.
“These have been in the pots for many months, so will need to be planted out very soon.
“We also have a selection of sundries on offer including Vitax products, sprays, flowerpots and terracotta and grey marble pots.
“If you are interested in any of the pots, please visit our nursery or contact us.”
For more information, visit cantsroses.co.uk.
Cants Roses did not wish to provide any comment at the time when approached by the Gazette.
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