OWNERS of Enham Alamein post office are celebrating after being named the best village shop/post office in the South of England in the Countryside Alliance Awards.

It’s a case of third time lucky for Leslie Barry and Tim Francis who own the local village store having been placed third two years ago and second last year.

The couple now have a one in 12 chance of winning the national prize and will travel to the House of Lords on Wednesday 30 March where an overall winner from the 12 regions will be announced. Leslie said: “We are very pleased to have been nominated, and very proud to have won.

“Over the last year everybody has had a tough time and we are committed to the local community, supporting local businesses and the rural network.

“Being recognised for having made an effort is great.

“When times are hard the appreciation and feel good factor is there for everybody to enjoy.”

The couple have been running the shop for six years and Leslie said that some lifelong residents of the village told them it’s the best it’s ever been. A spokeswoman from Enham said the store was a vital service to the local community of Enham Alamein and especially to the clients at Enham.

“We wish Leslie and Tim good luck for the 30th,” she added.