TWO dedicated wholesalers have taken the reins of a historic business after clocking 77-years of service between them.

Ray Longstaff and Jonny Parsons are the new owners of Rodbers of Richmond, making them just the fourth owners of the store in its 111-year history.

Mr Longstaff said: “Despite being new owners, we have known our customers for many years and have a great working relationship with them.

“One thing has not and will not change and that is our customers come first in every decision that we make; any other company would be hard-pressed to match the level of customer service that we provide.”

Altogether the six members of Rodbers staff have over 175-years’ combined service.

Mr Longstaff said: “One of the reasons we bought Rodbers was because we knew the staff and could rely on them.

“They all value the customers and will always go that extra mile to provide them with the knowledge and service they deserve.

“We have built a very loyal customer base in both the trade and retail sectors and we like to think our customer service and product knowledge is part of the reason they keep coming back.”

Rodbers has previously sponsored local sports teams and the Georgian Theatre Royal.

When Richmond Garden Centre closed, they donated materials to the charity who renovated the building into The Station.