A sign was erected outside Tiffany's card shop and newsagents last week.

This week, owner Richard Cussons and agents Guthrie Bond, who are dealing with the sale, both declined to comment.

Mr Cussons, who saw an increase in turnover and profit last year, is also selling his business in Holmes Chapel.

"Mr Cussons is now moving on to other things," an assistant told the Knutsford Guardian on Monday.

A shop assistant at the King Street branch of Tiffany's - billed as the biggest card shop in the borough - believed Mr Cussons was hoping to forge a career in teaching.

Fellow trader Val Boston-Davies, who owns Wares of Knutsford, said she was 'amazed'.

Another trader, just a few doors from Tiffany's, said: "I hadn't even noticed that the signs were up."

Meanwhile, Ma Maison Interiors is to reopen next month - under a different name.

"I have enjoyed my two years here, but having just got married I want to spend more time with my other half and perhaps start a family," said owner Karine Ollagnier.