A historic shop with 150 years of service to the town is up for sale.

But it is hoped that the name that will be known to almost everyone in the town will not disappear.

Property consultants Carter Jonas is marketing the property available as freehold.

Additionally, there is potential for a purchaser to continue the retail arm of the much-loved hardware store, Rickards & Son Ltd, which has occupied the site since 1864.

Located at the end of Ludlow’s famous medieval Market Street, the property is Grade II listed and provides 5,200 sq ft of space over three floors with a cellar.

It includes a separate building, The Courtyard, currently used as a warehouse, accessed via No. 6 & 7 or through a gateway and side passage leading onto Corve Street.

The property has planning potential for the conversion of the upper floors and courtyard into residential accommodation.

“Following the death of my father Jim Lloyd 45 years ago, the family opted to continue the business and I am very grateful for the support that has been forthcoming over the many years from the residents of Ludlow and its wider community,” said Mike Lloyd, chairman of Rickards and Son Ltd.

“I sincerely hope that in tandem with Carter Jonas, we can find a successful way forward and I will be supporting the staff through these times.”

The shop has been part of Ludlow for as long as anyone can remember.

“For many years, Rickards & Sons has played a huge role in supporting the town’s community, but events over the past 18 months have caused many businesses to take stock and reconsider their approach,” said Charlene Sussums-Lewis, an Associate with Carter Jonas.

“Ludlow is one of the finest historic towns in England, welcoming thousands of visitors each year,

“The property is of nineteenth-century construction with many original features, giving it a magical feel.”