A popular Darlington business that dates back to the 1970s has 'reluctantly' gone up for sale and is now looking for new owners.

Crown Buttery, which is based on Crown Street in the town, appeared on several estate agency websites earlier this week - and is seeking someone to step in to run the business. 

The café, which serves breakfasts, panini's, baguettes, salads, soups, and desserts, the venue has become known around Darlington and has built up a loyal following over its extensive time there.

Despite running a successful business and building it from the ground up, its owners have decided to sell up, due to retirement, according to the sale listing online. 

The business, which is up for sale for £9,995, is available on a leasehold basis - with any new owners encouraged to take over the popular and well-followed business.

In the listing, from property group Hilton Smythe, it says: "We are delighted to welcome to the market Crown Buttery, a well-established and popular café business based in Darlington.

"The business was established by our client in the 1970s and is only now offered to the market, reluctantly, due to our client's desire for semi-retirement.

"The business operates six days per week and generates a turnover in the region of £180,000 per annum, with a net profit of approximately £36,000.

The listing continues: "Crown Buttery offers a wide variety of high-quality, home-made produce including full breakfasts, Panini, baguettes, salads, soups, and desserts.

"The business has built up an enviable reputation within the area for the high quality of the fayre offered, which has resulted in a very loyal client base, with a high volume of repeat trade and word of mouth footfall."

The listing can be found here.

Read more:

Get the latest news, sports, and entertainment delivered straight to your device by subscribing to The Northern Echo here. 

Currently, Crown Buttery runs the day-to-day business with six part-time staff members and are open Monday to Friday 9am until 3pm and Saturday 9am until 4pm. 

But the online listing says that "a new owner could add a website and also embark on a small marketing campaign to highlight the business and fine produce offered with the addition of a local delivery service.

It adds: "This is an excellent opportunity for a new owner to take this already thriving and busy café business to the next level."