BRITAIN’S oldest pet supply store is on the market.

The Borders business, which was founded in 1830, has only had four owners during its illustrious 188-years.

And offers are currently being taken from anyone hoping to become the fifth.

W E Howden was first established in Coldstream by George Wilson, the inventor of sheep dip.

And the High Street store, which was last refitted in 1896, contains many of the original fittings, including a B-listed frontage, the original dispensary counter and hand-crafted storage units.

The current owner and landlord, Rob Smith, has decided to retire after being at the helm for the last 45 years.

He told us: “The craftsmanship is quite something and entirely unique.

“The new owner will be taking over a business in good shape with plenty of growth opportunities, particularly in our line of own brand pet food.”

W E Howden is being sold jointly by the Edinburgh commercial agency branch of Allied Surveyors and Borders based Solicitors and Estate Agents, Hastings Legal.

Iain Mercer, Allied Surveyors’ director of commercial agency, said: “This is an extremely rare and unique opportunity to purchase W E Howden and continue the rich history and tradition of the business.

“The purchaser will not only be buying the property freehold but the business goodwill, its extensive database of UK-wide clients and its own brand of dog foods – Coldstream Crunch and Kelso Cobbles.”

Offer over £175,000 are being invited.