A former Suffolk Spar is to be turned into two cottages, if plans are approved.

Planning permission is being sought to turn the former Spar Dairy Stores in Great Cornard, near Sudbury, into two homes.

It will involve the demolition of the former retail shop, which has been empty for years, and the addition of two three-bedroom cottages.

Spar Dairy Stores closed in 2014, which marked "the end of an era" for the business.

A letter from company director Henry Byham, who is making the planning application, says the family was involved in running the shop for 45 years.

The dairy business H Byham & Son, known as Ballingdon Dairy, is a family-run business which is more than 100 years old. Founded in 1913 by Henry Byham, it is now managed by his great grandsons, one of whom is also called Henry.

Mr Byham added that the decision to close was "not taken lightly", but said the Sainsbury's that had opened nearby in 2012 had meant residents were changing their shopping habits, leading to a loss of footfall for the business.

A decision should be expected on the application by April 19.