Village shop grant is “transformative” in Westbury-sub-Mendip

It’s time for celebration at the Westbury-sub-Mendip village shop. In addition to honouring their 10-year anniversary this year, the volunteers who staff the shop have also received a £2000 grant from the Mendip Hills Fund.

For those who aren’t in the know there is in fact a lot more to the shop than one may realise — not only does the shop stock local produce and essential provisions, but the shop is also home to the post office as well as being the box office for local events. And it doesn’t stop there: step outside and you can also enjoy the shop’s garden which, set out with picnic tables, is a welcoming spot for walkers, parents on the school run, and community events.

The shop is managed by Kate Camp and Liza Lovell, “We are a central meeting point” says Kate, “it’s where everyone loves to go. In the summer our small stock room turns into a hatch area serving breakfast through the window directly into the garden — it’s surprising what you can achieve from the stock room!”

The garden space also plays host to year around events such as afternoon tea gatherings and BBQs in the warmer months whilst being home for the village nativity in December. “It’s a multi-use space for sure” says Kate, “and it’s a really popular spot for walkers due to our close proximity to the Strawberry Line.”

“It’s not our shop – it’s their shop. It’s for the community.”

Liza Lovell, Manager

“The grant from the Mendip Hills Fund has been transformative for us. The first thing we did was upgrade our till system – it was running on Windows 7 which is obsolete! We also needed a new printer, card machines, card readers and memory cards and solar powered CCTV. We’re up-to-date with everything now  – aside from a new laptop – that’s our next target.”

Jim Hardcastle, Manager of the Mendip Hills National Landscape says “Any community needs a hub that links many things together in a positive way. The community shop in Westbury-sub-Mendip clearly plays a really important role in so many ways. Small grants, that are easy to apply for and that can be used in a variety of ways can be vital for these important community initiatives. I’m really pleased that the Mendip Hills Fund has been the oil in the works again!”

The Westbury-sub-Mendip shop is open seven days a week and is run by, and owned by, the people of Westbury-sub-Mendip. Every penny of profit goes back into improving the shop and supporting local needs.

“It’s not our shop – it’s their shop” said Liza, “it’s for the community. And we couldn’t do what we do without our volunteers – they are priceless.”