A well-known Ledbury crafts gallery has been put up for sale by its owner.

Stuart Houghton, who founded the Collection Gallery in the Southend more than 20 years ago, wants to concentrate on his career as a potter.

He said: "I've set myself a target of the end of June and will be working very hard to find a buyer who wants to see the gallery, with its excellent reputation, continue.

"Collection Gallery has been well supported by visitors and local people and it would be a great loss to Ledbury if we were unable to secure a buyer.

"The buildings are wonderful, with lots of space to expand the gallery and develop studios. With support available from the Crafts Council, West Midlands Arts and new blood, Collection Gallery could have a great future.

"Stuart Houghton Ltd, our giftware manufacturing business, will continue to operate from our large premises in Little Marcle Road."

Mr Houghton said he was selling the gallery in order to focus on his own craft work as a potter.

He said: "I originally trained as a studio potter but I've not done nearly enough of it over the years.

"I just want to step back from my business interests and concentrate on pottery for a while."

The gallery, which employs four part-time staff, is being marketed by Ledbury-based agents John Goodwin. Offers are invited based on £295,000.