'Fundamental' community shop closes for big revamp

A volunteer who has worked in a much loved community shop since it opened 20 years ago, is closing it today ahead of a huge project to transform it.

About £280,000 was raised for All Cannings Shop in Devizes to turn the existing portacabin into a building with more storage and meeting space.

The money came from fundraising, donations and a government grant.

Local volunteer John Mead, 88, said 20 years is "a long time to be a temporary shop", but its presence had been "fundamental" for the community which is "excited" for its reopening.

"I stand behind the counter still which is really good fun," he said.

"A shop is one of the key things in a village or community that enables people to meet and get to know each other.

"This shop, it's part of the community, the same way as a church would be - it's fundamental."

The temporary shop portacabins, which was were built in 2005, are the only convenience stores in the local area.

Mr Mead said: "The portacabins have a limited life. It's been our aim all the way through to put in a permanent building which is happening now.

"I'm really excited. It's an absolute joy to see how the village has used and contributed to the shops' existence."

Mr Mead went on to explain that arrangements have been made to help residents who are less able to get to other shops further afield with the items they need during the three months of the shop's closure.

The rebuild of All Cannings Shop is due to be completed in spring and the shop is set to reopen in May.

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