Christow Community Shop Opens Following Resident Fundraising

Residents in Christow, located in the Teign Valley, Devon, have successfully opened a community shop following a collective fundraising initiative. This development comes after the previous shop and Post Office in the area ceased operations in May 2023. Subsequently, local inhabitants accumulated nearly £50,000 via donations, grants, and community shares, which enabled them to convert a wooden-cladded shipping container into the new retail establishment. The conversion process was supported by forty-three volunteers, comprising professionals such as plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and IT specialists. Jude Jones, the committee chair, commented on the endeavor, stating: “This has been a rollercoaster, but such a worthwhile one.” She added, “Everyone says you don’t know how much work is involved and they’re right.” Jones further noted the collaborative spirit, saying, “Everyone is chipping in with all the talents, things that would have driven me mad, you suddenly realise someone has done it.” Mrs. Jones expressed her aspirations for the shop, stating: “My hope is that it’s used and loved and continues to make a profit so that we can pay that back into the community.” The inventory of the shop includes essential items such as baked beans and soups, alongside locally sourced products like cider and fudge. Dan Rockett, the manager, who transitioned from a supermarket branch manager role to assume this position, remarked: “I’m really excited and really nervous. I just want to make it a hub for people in the village.” He further acknowledged the community’s involvement, stating, “The community wants the shop, they have been amazing in supporting this project and helping to get it off the ground and doing as much of the work as they can.” The organizers indicated their intention for the shop to operate from 07:45 to 18:00 on Mondays through Fridays, 08:00 to 16:00 on Saturdays, and 09:30 to 12:30 on Sundays. Nevertheless, they also noted an ongoing requirement for additional volunteers to adequately staff the stated opening hours. Readers can follow BBC Devon on X, Facebook, and Instagram, and submit story ideas to spotlight@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC does not assume responsibility for the content found on external sites, and information regarding its approach to external linking is available.