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UK: Wyevale takes over family-run nursery near Forest Row

A FAMILY-RUN nursery famed for having the widest selection of roses in the country has been taken over by a national chain.

Wyevale Garden Centres announced on Monday last week that it has increased its estate of sites to 151 –- with the acquisition of Wych Cross Garden Centre.

The premises, on the A22 between Forest Row and Nutley, has developed a reputation as a highly regarded plant centre with a passion for roses – at one point stocking more than 1,400 varieties – since it was established almost 30 years ago.

Former joint owner John Hacker was among those who helped to transform the site from a derelict group of buildings into the thriving business that it is today. He said: "I have loved every minute of working here, but we were looking to sell up and we felt Wyevale was the right company to take over.

"My parents sold their house to put the money into the business about 30 years ago, and over the years the garden centre has become the church in the market place – I got married in the greenhouse, and we have had other marriages and wakes here too."

Despite the takeover, interim manager Ray Kennedy has promised customers they can expect the same quality service as before.

"Inevitably, this has not been an easy decision to come to, and of course it's always difficult to find the right time to pass the business into new ownership," he said. "Change is difficult in any circumstances, but we'll be continuing with the same familiar faces as before.

"We are happy to know that our skilled and exceptional staff will be embraced into a company that values their contribution and expertise."

Wych Cross Garden Centre has been privately owned by three families over the years.

Kevin Bradshaw, chief executive of Wyevale Garden Centres, said: "I am thrilled to welcome Wych Cross Nurseries to the Wyevale Garden Centres family.

"Of particular interest is their wonderful rose business which we look forward to preserving and nurturing.

"Wych Cross Nurseries is widely loved by its loyal customers who visit for its breath-taking site in the heart of Ashdown Forest and for its remarkable plant offering.

"The centre is a welcome addition to our group."

The nursery has consolidated its collection of roses to about 600 varieties in recent years.

For more information: www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk and to find out more about the company, visit www.wychcross.co.uk

Source: www.eastgrinsteadcourier.co.uk
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