A well-established estate agency has closed after being acquired by a rival firm.

Donald Cope & Company, which has ceased to exist after more than 60 years, has ‘passed the mantle over’ to James Du Pavey.

In a social media post, Donald Cope & Company stated: “Donald Cope & Company has now closed and we have passed the mantle over to James Du Pavey, independent estate agents. So from the team at Donald Cope & Company it’s an emotional thank you and goodbye. Please join us in welcoming James and his team to our beloved town to help you write the next chapter of your stories.”

Businessman Donald Cope launched the estate agency above Goodwin’s cake shop, in Cheadle, in 1963.

The estate agency twice relocated before moving to Cheadle Shopping Centre in the 1980s. Cope passed away from cancer at the age of 68 in 2002.

A holding message on the Donald Cope & Company platform states: “Don’t worry, you haven’t clicked the wrong link – Philip is retiring and whilst we know we have some big shoes to fill, we are excited to be able to say that James Du Pavey is coming to Cheadle to follow in Phil’s footsteps.

“We are excited for what the future has to hold. Please get in touch with the team by calling the office on 01538 711400 or using the form below, and one of the team will be in touch.”