A VILLAGE shop that once won acclaim from the MP for its charitable work has closed down.

Pre-loved Treasures opened in New Road, Swanmore in 2020 after the previous business, a butcher, shut up shop.

It was initially taken over by community group Giving To Those In Need, a group that started on Facebook, and acted like a charity shop and food bank.

Its non-profit community work won praise at the time from the MP Flick Drummond.

However within a few months, the organisers behind the shop had parted ways, and it turned into a second-hand store, run by Carl Channon.

The shop, which had a large collection and varied assortment of second-hand items, was discussed at Swanmore Parish Council several times after residents reported it for its untidy appearance.

READ MORE: Flick Drummond MP visits Pre-Loved Treasures

Last month, further speculation was sparked after the shop closed its doors and put up blinds on the windows with a sign saying 'no donations.'

No further information about the shop and its future is known. Mr Channon was contacted but did not reply.

Residents in the village are now hopeful that a business of value to the community will move into the premises and renovate the property.

One said: "It's a bit of a mystery. The shop still looks unsightly, and last time I looked there was still a large dumped fridge outside. It's about time that someone came in and made a real go of it.

"The shop is next to the main convenience store as well as being opposite the school and church, it's a busy spot, and could make a really successful business.

"Quite frankly Swanmore deserves to have a business that cares about its appearance and the community in there."

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