Kent garden centre operator Bill Cox is in the process of selling Alkham Valley Garden Centre near Dover to an investment company.

Working with agents Alexander Mackie Associates, the business will change hands on 1 March, and the sale transaction is due to complete next Tuesday (February 28).

Mr Cox and his wife Caroline and their two young children are planning to move to the Westcountry, where they will start a new non-gardening venture.

It is understood the new owners will continue to operate the business as a garden centre and tea rooms.

The Coxes have run the business for 14 years.

“We have built up a loyal customer base over the years,” Mr Cox told GTN Xtra, “and fully anticipate that the new owners will build on this and continue to grow the business.

"The centre will benefit from the recent closure of Wyevale's Folkestone centre. The centre will be restocked over the coming weeks ready for the new season.”

Alkham Valley will be the fourth garden centre to be sold by Alexander Mackie Associates this year.