Sittingbourne’s only music shop could be about to play its last tune.

Owners Cynthia and Robert Swade have run Swade Music since they were handed the keys on November 21, 1991.

But after 23 years the husband and wife team, who are both 62, are now looking to take things easy.

As a result they have decided to sell the freehold premises in Roman Square, which comprises of a ground floor retail shop and a separate residential flat on the first floor.

The pair are marketing it privately for £220,000.

It has traded as a music shop since 1977 when it started life as Simpson’s, and there are hopes it will continue to stay as one when it is taken over.

The price of stock, and fixtures and fittings is subject to negotiation.

Mrs Swade said: “We moved to Sittingbourne in 1988. I was, and still am, a music teacher teaching piano and theory from home so I made myself known to the music shop which was called Bell Music and owned by Hohner.

“I didn’t think it was being run particularly well, even though I had no retail experience.

“So, I approached the head office and asked if they were interested in selling the business and they were.

“We’re hoping someone locally who’s musical might like to take it on.

“Some people have expressed an interested but nothing has come of it. It’s big commitment.

“When I took it on I expected to be there full time to start with then let my employees run it but 23 years later I’m still full time.”

While Mrs Swade is sad to be letting the business go she says she is looking forward to retirement.

She added: “There’s lots of things I want to do like play the piano and I will continue to teach it because I enjoy it.

“What I will miss is the social contact. We find we don’t need to go out in the evenings because our customers are our friends.”

For more details on the sale call 01795 425931.