THE owners of a gallery which has become well-known for showing the work of quality artists, sculptors and craftsmen is selling up.

Anna and John Payne have put Gallery on the Green, in Wooburn Green, on the market so Anna can concentrate on her career as an artist and John can spend more time pursuing his jazz interests.

The couple, who live in Bourne End, have bought a property in the Brecon National Park in Wales.

Anna admits it was a very difficult decision to sell up after six years at the gallery.

She said: "Over this period we have displayed work by dozens of painters, sculptors, glassmakers and potters, in the process meeting some fascinating (and eccentric) artists. We've also had many loyal and supportive customers."

The couple bought the gallery, with a flat above, after John retired from Xerox. Ideally they would both like to see it retained as a gallery or similar retail business.

The gallery, which is in a conservation area, measures 647 sq ft and was originally a house. Prior to being refurbished as a gallery, it was used as a launderette, a bank and a gunshop. It had been empty for two years when the Paynes bought it.

The versatile space has a large bay window and is divided to provide an office, store and rear studio/store behind the open plan gallery. It also has its own toilet.

The two-bedroom flat above the gallery, which has its own private entrance, features gas central heating and a recently re-fitted open-plan kitchen and separate bathroom.

Vacant possession is available on November 1 and the freehold is for sale at offers in excess of £225,000 through Philip Marsh Hardings Deung of Beaconsfield on (01494) 680000.