Speculation surrounds the sudden closure of a well-loved Newton Abbot farm and garden machinery dealer and repair company.

CR Willcocks, which is based at Heathfield, closed its doors without warning last Tuesday. The firm has also withdrawn its website and deleted all its social media profiles.

A sign on the outside of the premises informs customers: ‘CR Willcocks is permanently closed.’

It continues: ‘Any customers who have items with the service or horticultural departments will be contacted shortly.’

It is alleged on several social media sites that the company, which was due to celebrate its 60th anniversary this November, has entered administration. The Mid-Devon Advertiser approached several people closely associated with the business but nobody was willing to comment on the circumstances surrounding the closure, with one noting that ‘it’s a family business and a personal matter’.

CR Willcocks was well regarded for the helpfulness of its staff and the quality its service and advice.