VILLAGERS in Roadwater who stepped in to ensure the future of their local shop and post office are celebrating a business boom.

A new community-led company has been running the outlet since the beginning of July to keep it open while it continues to be marketed for sale.

And figures just released show that in the first three weeks of trading under the temporary regime turnover went up by 34 per cent.

With the help of the store’s dedicated paid staff, a volunteer committee has extended weekday opening hours to 7pm and evening sales account for 19 per cent of the increased business.

More than £35,000 of working capital was raised through the issue of shares in the newly formed Roadwater Community Shop Ltd to allow the business to continue to trade after the owners announced that for personal reasons it would have to close at the end of June if a buyer had not been found.

Investors have included people who no longer live in the village, as well as others from as far away as Southampton, Buckinghamshire and even New Zealand.

Spokesman Edward Townsend said: “The fantastic increase in sales is testament to the overwhelming support for the venture by residents of Roadwater and surrounding villages.

“The staff, volunteers and management committee have worked very hard to offer the best service.”

Mr Townsend said the committee would welcome suggestions from customers to improve the service and members were currently considering stocking an increased range of local products.

“The working capital raised so far provides a solid foundation upon which to develop the business into the future,” he said.

“But we would still welcome additional investors or donations.”

The shop not only serves Roadwater but also the neighbouring Luxborough, Treborough, Leighland and the surrounding area.