The owners of a not-for-profit tearoom in St Mary Cray are appealing for people to continue its legacy.

Carole Wells and her husband Norman have run The Croft Tearoom, along the High Street, since 2009.

The couple - who have been partners for more than 30 years - bought the ‘derelict’ site in 2008.

They rebuilt it from the ground up into what it is today, selling local produce including bread, honey, jams, marmalade and scones.

MORE TOP STORIES The Croft Tearoom operates as a not-for-profit 'community interest company' (CIC), meaning Mrs Wells does not take a salary for her role as manager.

They are both planning on retiring, but hope this does not spell the end of what they have created.

Mrs Wells said: “I haven’t found anyone to replace myself to take it over.

“I’m a volunteer so it’s a huge commitment, which is why it’s been hard to find someone.

“We would like to find someone who could carry on our principles. It would be a shame for it just to be sold.

“It’s great for the community, it’s very sad it has to come to an end. Sadly it’s no longer possible for me to keep it going, so we’re closing the tearoom.”

She gave her time as a volunteer for eight years before taking over as manager nearly five and a half years ago.

Living in Coney Hall, she added: “St Mary Cray is not an area normally associated with tearooms!

“We built up this shop selling all the produce, we’re very committed.

“This is something we wanted to do as a community thing; we’re appealing for people to come forward, anyone with suggestions or ideas.

“We’ve got wonderful memories and links with everyone in the community. The response from people has been overwhelming.”

Their last day will be on March 28, anyone interested in the space is welcome to speak to the couple in store.

For more information visit: crofttearoom.co.uk