La Hogue Farm Shop is being sold following a health scare to co-owner Chris Reeks.

Mr Reeks, who owns the business with his wife Jo, both 36, said that after the scare the couple want to spend more time with their 10-month-old son Jack.

"This has been a huge and difficult decision for us as the business has seen unprecedented success and has a very loyal customer base," said Mr Reeks.

"We feel the business is in a good position but would benefit from fresh eyes and further investment to continue the success it has achieved.

"We will continue with the hands-on running of the business until a purchaser is found, particularly with the busy Christmas period ahead."

The shop, which is next to Chippenham Farm Estate, owned by Mrs Reeks' parents, has grown quickly in the six years since it was established and attracts about 1,000 customers every week.

It stocks an extensive range of home and locally produced food, from organic products to fruit and vegetables, freshly baked bread, regional jams, chutneys, pickles and teas and coffees.

Named after the famous 17th century naval battle between the French and British navies, timbers from the ships were used to construct some of the farm buildings on site.

Plans have also been submitted for a tea room next to the farm shop, which won the National Daily Telegraph Business Award in 2004/2005 and the Best Food Shop in East Anglia in 2006. It was also voted one of Britain's top 30 farm shops by the Daily Mail in 2007.

Offers in excess of £100,000 are being sought for the leasehold interest of La Hogue, with an annual rent of £15,000.

La Hogue is organising a late night shopping evening on Thursday, December 4, with a Christmas barn and Santa's grotto for youngsters. Parents can also enjoy mulled wine.