Our Village Shop.
One of the many good things about living in this small village is that, despite competition from several supermarkets five miles away, there is still a thriving Village Shop selling everything from newspapers and firelighters to organic vegetables and gourmet foods, many sourced locally. But it was not always so - in 1996 the shop was in danger of closing. Following the retirement of the previous manager it was being kept open by a rota of village volunteers. There was little stock and the property, and adjoining house, were in poor repair. Then along came Sue and Keith Gudgeon who bravely took early retirement from their jobs in London and bought the shop and property. They renovated it and used all their skills to turn the shop from a failing business into the success it now is. After seven years they sold the shop and retired to live in the village and Sue has now written a book telling the story of their epic struggle and the support given to them by villagers and staff. There are many amusing stories but the book also shows what it takes to succeed in an extremely competitive area of business. Entitled "The Other Side of the Counter", Sue is selling her book at £8.99 a copy. If you would like a copy just "comment" with your email address and we will pass on your enquiry.