Veterinary supplies company W&J Dunlop, one of South West Scotland's biggest employers, has been bought by US firm Henry Schein Inc, one of Europe and North America's largest providers of healthcare products. 

The terms of the deal have not been disclosed, although according to reports a price tag of £10m has been estimated. Current owners, the Cooper family, are expected to receive great windfalls from the sale, as they are the only shareholders.

The Dumfries-based business was estblished in 1921, and currently has a workforce of around 450 employees.

New York- based Henry Schein said that it was "delighted to enter the UK animal health market in such a strong position."