THE former top boss of Sainsbury's was on hand to officially open a new community-run store.
Lord Sainsbury cut the ribbon to officially open the new Candover Valley Store, coffee area and Post Office in Preston Candover on Saturday.
The peer was assisted by Preston Candover CofE Primary School pupils, Isabelle Cooke and Millie Hill winners of the Key Stage 1 and 2 categories of a poster design competition to mark the opening of the store.
Elsewhere, a ukelele band provided entertainment while guests enjoyed tea, homemade cake and ice creams before the Bishop of Basingstoke, Rt Revd David Williams, gave a speech and a blessing.
Lord Sainsbury leased the land on which the store has been built and has given support to the project.
He said: “Lady Sainsbury and I have been very interested in the project from the start some years ago. We have watched it progress since building began last November and we are now very pleased to see it completed and open for business.”
The store, which serves the villages of the Candover Valley, cost a total of £220,000 to build, fit out and stock.
This was raised through a combination of donations from many supporters, grants and a community share scheme which now has more than 250 participants.
Rt Revd Williams said: “This is a true community undertaking, built by and for local people who really care about
keeping their villages alive. It is run by them too.
"Volunteering at the shop is very rewarding for those involved. It is a wonderful way of combatting rural isolation which can be a serious concern for both young and old.”
The store, post office and coffee area are managed by employees Garry Green and assistant Emma Simpson while a band of 45 volunteers provide them with support on a rota basis.
The store offers a range of groceries and household essentials including fresh vegetables, fruit and flowers, chilled and frozen foods, prepared meals, baby food, cards, gifts and Hampshire-produced cheeses, artisan coffee, real ale and award-winning sparkling wine.
Exhibitions of local art and crafts will also be held from time to time.
Richard Saunders, treasurer of Candover Valley Community Store committee, said: “People are overjoyed with their new community store. We are ideally located in the centre of the village. It looks fantastic and there is a great welcoming atmosphere. The shop is well stocked and we are supporting many local producers. It was crucial to keep a post office in the village, but we have achieved that and a great deal more. The coffee area is already proving to be a popular meeting place.”
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