A VILLAGE shop has turned to the public for support after a series of problems and a downturn in trade has left its future hanging in the balance after more than 200 years of serving the community. 

Barton Stacey Post Office and Stores could be forced to close if it doesn’t reach its fundraising target of £30,000.

The convenience store has been working at a loss since September, with December alone - which is usually a good time for trade - costing £5,000 due to postal strikes, increasing overheads and decreasing trade.

Owners Kevin and Lisa May have had to face a number of problems since taking over the shop in 2018 but the recent expense of building work has pushed the business over the edge.

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READ MORE: Post Office owners receive fond farewell from community

Work to build an extension has run into problems, causing delays and adding extra cost.

Mr May, 59, said: “It’s pretty desperate at times but we try not to let it get us down. Everything is at stake, both our livelihoods and our home.

“The shop is in imminent danger. It was quite a shock when we realised the extent of what was going on. December usually gives us a boost but was terrible this year. With the postal strikes people just weren’t delivering things, we sold less than 50 per cent and lost £1,000 on postal earnings.

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“The extra overheads too, it all hit us. Our electricity bill was £380 per month in 2019 and then in November we paid more than £1,000.

“The good news is that in terms of day-to-day sales, we’ve got an amazing community and village who have rallied around us to spend more in-store and donate. The boost in trade is still going, sales are efficient and the business is doing okay.

“We’re embarrassed to have to ask but it’s really heart-warming how well the community has supported us. One family gave £400. It’s just wonderful.”

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Despite the generosity of customers, the shop could still face closure within the next month if any more building problems are found and not enough money is made.

Mr May continued: "It’s devastating to think about. We’ve got a responsibility, this shop is believed to be 213 years old. To think we may be the ones to cause it to close down is awful and hard to take.

“We’ve got lots of older and less mobile customers who rely on it. They need their village shop and post office in order to pay their bills, collect their pension and buy groceries.”

Chair of Barton Stacey Parish Council, Donna Oliver, said: "The council was saddened, like everyone, to hear of the struggles that Kevin and Lisa have been going through.

"We are doing everything we can to support them and ensure they remain a vital part of our parish community, and that the Post Office and Stores continues to provide the essential services it does for many years to come."

More than £3,500 has been raised so far to save the shop and postal service so far. For more information or to donate go to justgiving.com/crowdfunding/barton-stacey-stores?.