Jamie Oliver's parents sell Essex pub the Cricketers in Clavering

Jamie Oliver's parents have sold their Essex pub, the Cricketers in Clavering, after 44 years.

Trevor and Sally Oliver are retiring and have sold the property to Chestnut group, which runs 12 pubs, inns and restaurants across the east of England.

The Olivers bought the Cricketers in 1976 and it was where their son Jamie first discovered his love of cooking.

Trevor Oliver said: "We have had an amazing time running the inn, which has been our home for the last 44 years. We brought up our children, trained and supported hundreds of staff in the hospitality sector and made many friends for life. But with a great team and strong support from our loyal customers in place we felt it was the right time to move on.

"So, we have taken the decision to hand over the keys to Chestnut and look forward to seeing the next phase in the life of the Cricketers from the other side of the bar."

Philip Turner, founder of Chestnut, said there are no plans to make any "significant changes" to the pub in the short term.

He added: "We are delighted to have acquired the Cricketers, an inn we've wanted to add to our growing collection for some time.

"The way the business is managed – with a strong emphasis on good quality food with accommodation – makes it a perfect fit for our collection.

"We will focus on maintaining its well-deserved reputation. We do however look forward to getting to know the team and guests and building on all the hard work and energy Trevor and Sally have put into the business over the years.

"While some may question if this is the right time for us to acquire the Cricketers, our view and commitment is long term, this is a hugely successful business with strong foundations, we have full confidence in its future potential."

Chestnut's other properties include the Packhorse Inn in Moulton near Newmarket, and the Rupert Brooke in Grantchester on the outskirts of Cambridge.