Village to raise funds for shop plan

BUCKLAND Brewer villagers will be putting their money on the line as part of a community shop fund-raising event tomorrow (Saturday). Shop supporters are being encouraged to donate their change by filling the outline of a proposed community shop, which w

BUCKLAND Brewer villagers will be putting their money on the line as part of a community shop fund-raising event tomorrow (Saturday).

Shop supporters are being encouraged to donate their change by filling the outline of a proposed community shop, which will replace the post office and general store that closed in March 2009.

The coin trail takes place at the Buckland Brewer Methodist Church between 10.30am and 1.30pm.

The shop committee's plans are for a small temporary building to house a community-owned and run shop. The committee aims to finalise its business plan by the end of the summer and will seek grant funding from a variety of local, regional and national sources.

Shop committee chairman Peter McClymont said: "Losing our local shop last year was a blow to the community. However, many villages have opened community-based shops. We are determined to do the same here."

"There is a long road ahead, especially in terms of raising funds. We think the visual nature of the coin trail will give substance to our plans and swell our coffers."

Other attractions at the event will include a table top sale by local craftspeople; pot painting for children; coffee and cakes.

Organisers will be on hand to talk about project progress.