OWNERS of an award-winning café and gallery in Salisbury have put their business up for sale.

Michael and Deborah Fox have presided over Fisherton Mill for the past 30 years, but they are now moving on to pastures new.

The gallery, the largest independent of its kind in Wiltshire, has been a hub of creativity and art over the years and keenly promotes the work of local artists.

The pair, who live at the Mill, said it was not an easy decision to put the business up for sale.

In a statement this morning (June 27), they said: “The Mill has been our family home as well as our business and taking a step aside from it will be very hard.

“The building has been the most wonderful host to so much warmth, laughter, creativity and, of course, cake!

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“Michael and I look upon our team, studios and customers as extended family and know that for many the feeling is reciprocated.

“We really value the friendship, support and love they have given us over the years.”

While it’s too early to see what the next steps are for Fisherton Mill, Michael and Deborah said they are thinking “carefully” about its future and who will work within it.

“We know that change can feel uncertain, but we want to reassure everyone that we are committed to finding the right buyer who can carry it forward with ambition and love.

Picture: Fisherton Mill

“Someone who has more energy than we do now and who can ensure the whole business will continue to thrive and grow for the next 30 years!”

Its very much business as usual at the Mill until the sale goes through, which is expected to take some time.

The pair added that they feel “very privileged” to have been caretakers of such a historic building.

“We are so proud to be a small part of what makes Salisbury special. We have loved running our business, which has had the opportunity to grow and develop with the help and support of our team and customers, and we predict exciting things to come.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the other Salisbury Independents, the BID, Visit Wiltshire and the local council for their support in creating an environment in which our business could thrive,” they said.

More information about the sale can be found at www.primmeroldsbas.co.uk