A family of farmers is retiring and putting its eight-and-a-half-acre plot of land up for sale.

The Robinsons, of Bloomer Hill Farm, Coates Lane, Sils-den, have worked the farm for the last 50 years.

Tony Robinson, who lives at Bloomer Hill with his wife Joan, says a combination of ill health - he has just had a hip replaced - and the poor state of agriculture at the moment has contributed to the decision.

"We thought we could have maybe carried on a little longer," says Tony, who shares the farming duties with his brother Richard. "But there is no point in carrying on and losing money."

Mr Robinson says he will be sorry to see the farm go. It was handed down by his parents. "But we intend to carry on living in Silsden," he says.

Bloomer Hill takes its name from local iron workings. Part of the farmhouse was a nailmaker's shop. Silsden Moor was once the centre for nail production.

The farmhouse dates back to the mid 16th century. There are remains of an old beehive oven in the back wall and bacon salting slabs and ham hooks in the pantry.

The site is offered in two lots. Lot one - with a guide price of £175,000 - includes the three-bedroomed farmhouse with approximately three and a half acres. Lot two - guide price £155,000 - includes five and a half acres and a stone barn with planning permission to convert to three four-bedroomed cottages.

Further details are available from Simon Thornton Country-/Equestrian Property Service at Ilkley on (01943) 816213.

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