A RURAL family business is set to close after more than 30 years in business.

Dick Lawson Ltd, a garden machinery depot, has been an integral part of the village of High Coniscliffe, near Darlington, since 1968.

But the firm will cease trading on October 1, to allow the Lawson family to concentrate on its property business.

During 1975 and 1976, the company flourished as local farmers bought machinery to reduce their tax bills.

Mr Lawson said: "We had two very good years and we had to make a decision whether to move because we had outgrown our premises.

"We gave it a lot of thought but decided to stay put at High Coniscliffe as we were well-known."

When Mr Lawson retired, his daughter, Julia, took over the management.

The family will be holding an open day on Tuesday, from 2pm to 7pm.