The chief executive of a Manchester-based printing and software firm has stepped down after a deal to sell one of its divisions for more than £3m was announced.

Peter Gunning has left his position at Grafenia with immediate effect after the group revealed a deal to sell Works Manchester to Rymack Sign Solutions.

The divested company used to be called Image Everything while the buyer trades as PFI Group.

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Grafenia confirmed it will receive a cash consideration of £3.165m through the deal.

The business added that Mr Gunning will continue to be involved as a consultant of Nettl Systems.

He will also take on a master licence for WorksThing and Nettl in Spain.

The board has appointed group chief operating officer Gavin Cockerill as its acting chief executive.

Mr Gunning said: "Nearly a quarter of a century ago we opened our first store in Edinburgh.

"It's been a great privilege to build and develop a business in such a time of intense change.

"And now it's time for me to start something new. To bring Nettl and WorksThing to the businesses of Spain.

"For the last decade, I've worked flowery-jacket to complicated-gilet with Gavin.

"I wish him and the team every success. I'd also like to thank our teams for their energy, good humour and attitude, particularly through dark days.

"I've worked with so many wonderful people along the way. Thank you all. Please make the most of the new opportunities that today brings. Hasta siempre."