A family-run pet Cumbrian pet food company is set to change hands after the current owners announced they were stepping away from the business after 32 years.

R W & P J Park Pet Foods, located in the town of Millom, will move to new ownership on October 1.

Current owner Phil Park told customers of his family’s decision on the company’s Facebook page.

He wrote: “This is probably one of the hardest posts I will ever have to write. After 32 years in business as a family, we have made the incredibly difficult decision to hand over the reins to a new family.

“This hasn’t been an easy decision. In fact, it has probably been one of the hardest decisions we have ever had to make. But after a lot of thought, we know in our hearts that it is the right thing for us and the right time to start a new chapter.

Phil added in the social media post: “Over those 32 years, I have also had the privilege of meeting some truly wonderful people. The friendships, conversations, laughs and relationships we have built along the way are probably what I will miss the most. The business may be changing hands, but those memories and friendships will always stay with me.

“From 1st October, we will begin handing everything over to the new owners. Things will remain much the same, and I will be there to help them learn the ropes and make sure the transition is as smooth as possible.”