Pilley community shop celebrates booming first year in new home beside Boldre War Memorial Hall

CUSTOMERS, volunteers and shareholders of Pilley Community Shop have celebrated a booming first year by sharing a birthday cake cut by shop manager Caroline Darke.

The shop and post office moved to new, larger premises beside Boldre War Memorial Hall and playpark in August 2022.

The community facility was established in 2015, owned as a mutual benefit society by members of the community.

Treasurer Neil Eccles commented: “The shop has gone from strength to strength over the last year. We have retained our established customers and attracted many new ones. Indeed sales were at the best level ever last month.”

Manager Caroline said they had been able to expand the product range significantly with well-stocked chiller cabinets.

“We are now able to offer locally produced pork, Dexter beef and lamb, as well as specialist bread, local dairy products. and ice cream,” she said.

Resident Caroline Slattery added: “‘The coffee machine, together with the lovely location, make the shop an attractive place to meet and sit in the sunshine at the picnic tables while the children play in the park.”