In 1962, at the age of 19, Charles Hunt joined the family firm in Wallingford, which supplies animal feed to local farmers.

Now, after 50 years, Mr Hunt, 69, is retiring and selling the business, severing a connection with his family dating back to 1894.

After starting out sweeping the floors and weighing bags of feed, Mr Hunt worked his way up to become a partner, running the firm with his wife Susan. They took over the business in 1988.

The company is being sold to John and Rachel Britnell, and the firm is being renamed JBF Feeds.

Mr Hunt, who is retiring on March 30, said: “This is the end of an era for our family business and it will now be in the hands of the young couple taking over.

“It’s a very steady and reliable business, and very lucky to have the support of such loyal customers over the years.”

Launched by Mr Hunt’s grandfather, Walter, the firm first traded from a shop in the town centre, before moving to Goldsmith’s Lane. For the past 27 years, the firm has operated from the Rockfort industrial estate, in Hithercroft Road.

Mr Hunt added: “We have always sold to the farming community, but when Susan and I took over, we diversified into equestrian and pet foods and that saved us when farming was hit by the foot and mouth crisis in 2001.

“We still suffered, but we were able pull through.”

Over the years, the company has expanded to supply a wide range of products. As well as animal health products and pet foods, the firm now sells equestrian supplies including clothing and stable equipment, and a range of products including Wellington boots.

In recent years, organic and GM-free feeds have also proved popular.

Mr Hunt plans to play more golf at Hadden Hill Golf Club following his retirement, while Mrs Hunt, 62, who looked after the firm’s accounts, will continue with her nursing career.

Mr Hunt said none of their three children had wanted to work in the family firm.

He added: “We have two grandchildren, aged eight and three weeks, and my oldest daughter Naomi Lynam, who is 33, is expecting twins in the summer, so we will be very busy.”