ONE of Hereford's most famous family firms has been bought up after serving top-quality groceries to the community for three decades.

Since starting at Meadow Market in Withington in 1971, Parry's of Hereford Fruit and Vegetable wholesalers, built up an excellent reputation among the general public as well as the county's hotels, restaurants, pubs and schools.

But, as from last Monday, the name of Parry's was written out of the produce industry when Redbridge Foodservice at Staniers Way bought the Herefordshire business.

Mike Parry, who ran the company with his parents Brian and Jane, said the decision to sell was not an easy one for the firm that relocated from Maylord Orchards to Rotherwas in 2001.

"We pondered on the offer long and hard, but thought it would be good for my parents to stop the early starts and enjoy a happy retired life," he said.

"I suppose it is the end of an era, but also the start of a new beginning for us."

"We will now work with Redbridge to provide an excellent service, which will be as good as the one we provided for the past 33 years," he added.

Richard Clements, managing director of Redbridge Produce and Flowers , Hereford, said: "The Parry business has an excellent reputation in this area with experienced staff and a strong, loyal customer base.

"There are many similarities between the Parry business and our own operation and I am confident we will be able to build on these to further enhance the service we offer our customers."