THE OPENING of a new village shop in Lower Broadheath is closer than ever after the sales of shares in the community-owned enterprise exceeded expectations.
More than 350 stakeholders subscribed to Lower Broadheath Community Shop Limited’s recent share offer, netting £39,860.
Grants from The Big Lottery Fund Awards for All and the Bernard Sunley Charitable Foundation as well as backing from the Post Office have taken the total secured to date to almost £80,000.
Shareholders at a public meeting voted to release capital and the shop’s cabin has now been ordered.
It will be three months before the structure arrives on site in the garden of The Bell Inn, where it will be fitted out by tradespeople and volunteers.
In the meantime, community-minded villagers are being sought to help with a variety of jobs in front of and behind the scenes.
“Achieving our funding goal within twelve months of launching proposals was a terrific achievement and demonstrates the community’s desire for a new village shop,” said Mark Glossop, chair of the community shop committee.
“However, the hard work is only just beginning.
“Volunteer roles will include administration and book-keeping, maintenance and stock control.
“Opening the shop seven days a week requires a bank of volunteers as well as a leader or two to organise teams and shifts.
“The only paid position will be a part-time shop manager.”
Email [email protected] or visit www.lowerbroadheathshop.com to get involved.
