A CONFECTIONERY shop is up for grabs - and to tempt would-be managers applicants are being offered a real sweetener.

Mennells, in St Michael's Street, Malton, has been keeping people supplied with their favourite goodies for three generations.

Its original 1920s glass and wood display cabinets, and its large sweet-filled jars, have become familiar to countless customers.

But Cynthia Wheater, who took over from her mother, Frances Mennell, more than 50 years ago, is retiring because of ill-health.

Property owner, the Fitzwilliam Estate, is offering the new managers the chance to take over the shop and are offering a three-bedroomed house rent free.

Estate manager Roddy Bushell said: "Mennell's has been part of Malton's heritage for too long for it to face closure.

"It is a charming business that helps to keep the character of this market town unique. It would be a shame to lose it.

"To help attract interest we have tried to make it a two-for-one offer - rent the shop and get living accommodation thrown in, for just £400 per month."

For further information, log on to www.maltonestate. co.uk