Artisan business Champseys Bakery, formerly known as Champs Bakery, has been put up for sale for £475,000.

The premises, which has 25 covers and additional space outside on the front terrace, is located on Oxford Street, Whitstable, and is being sold as a business with its freehold site and the first floor.

The business, which opened in 1988, currently trades as a bakery/café and includes a licence for the sale of alcohol.

The decision to sell comes as owner Geoff Champs, who has worked at the business for 30 years, plans to retire.

Champs told British Baker about some of the highlights during his time at Champseys.

“Being president of the Kent Master Bakers and winning several competitions have to be my favourite memories,” said Champs. “Colin Lomax [industry veteran and frequent competition judge] once told me my bloomer was the best that he had ever seen in one of those competitions.

“I’m going to have a gap year now,” he added. “I grew up working in my dad’s bakery even during the school holidays, so I never got the chance to take a year out.”

Estate agent WH Breading & Son is acting as agent for Champs.