Two Yorkshire entrepreneurs, whose businesses include a successful farm shop in the county, have bought Tong Garden Centre, near Bradford, in a multi-million pound deal.

Tom Megginson and Mark Farnsworth say they have substantial redevelopment plans for the garden centre and are both looking forward to injecting all their experience into their new venture.

Tom Megginson stated: "We have been looking for a new site and having been introduced to Tong Garden Centre by Ernest Wilson, it allows us to harness our previous business experience and take Tong Garden Centre from a successful business to a multi million pound turnover business which will not only provide a fantastic destination for our customers but will also increase the number of employees helping the local economy."

The sale of Tong Garden Centre was handled by Ernest Wilson Business Agents, based in Leeds.

Former owner Ron Harker appointed Ernest Wilson to find a purchaser for the 17-acre site following his decision to retire having owned the business since 1984. Following a serious fire in 2000 the garden centre was completely re-built incorporating a range of buildings including retail sales, restaurant, warehousing, glass houses and poly-tunnels extending to over 110,000 sq.ft. with car parking for 700 vehicles.

Tom Megginson and Mark Farnsworth own several businesses, including Williams Farm Kitchen, situated in Hornsea, and GWE Biogas in Driffield.

Jonathan Holmes, of Ernest Wilson, said: “As one of the largest independently owned businesses in West Yorkshire it has been a pleasure to act on Mr Harker’s behalf in the sale of Tong Garden Centre and ensuring Ron now enjoys a well-deserved retirement.

“The purchasers have some very exciting plans which I believe will really put this business on the map as one of the best garden centres in the region."

Tom Megginson and Mark Farnsworth pictured with Jonathan Holmes, of Ernest Wilson, outside Tong Garden Centre.