Mushroom farm to close its doors after 10 years

Production of Manx mushrooms - which are said to have put the Isle of Man on the map in the 'global mushroom arena' - will stop in September.

It follows the news that the award-winning Greeba Farm is being put up for sale after 10 years of farming. 

The farm currently produces around 8,000 lbs. of mushrooms each week for the local market and employs 10 people - three fulltime. 

Owners - Mark and Kathy Irwin - say the 'ever increasing demand' for their consultancy service overseas means it's difficult to balance the needs of the farm and their other interests. 

They're putting the business on the market saying although they want the farm to continue and be developed further they will consider 'all options and interested parties'. 

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture says it will work to promote the business as a 'going concern' saying it hopes a new owner can be supported to 'take on and grow the business'.