A CELEBRATION was held to formally open a unique village shop backed by hundreds of people.

Broughton Community Shop was officially opened on Saturday, November 17 by former director general of the BBC Greg Dyke.

This event also marked the three-month anniversary since the ‘shop in a box’ opened its doors and those behind it said it has been an amazing time of successful trading, hard work and community spirit.

The day was also time to pause and to thank everyone who has been involved along the way. The event was supported by some of the shop’s main suppliers who showcased their produce and tempted the taste buds of the guests.

Co-chair Julia Jenkins said: “We want to give a focus to local producers; we are all conscious of food miles and the environment, but above all, their food and drink are delicious.”

Pies and other savoury delights were provided by Austwicks Fresh Foods; wine and beer by Elegant Wines of Romsey and Test Brewing respectively; hot cheese soufflés from Broughton’s Red Fox and cakes by Lavender Blue Bakery who also judged a Cupcake Decorating competition.

She added: “When the owners of the village shop retired, we knew the village wanted to keep a shop. We couldn’t let them down. Thus, the shipping container arrived on the forecourt of the village hall in early August, and has been an incredible success.”

The shop now has a team of 85 volunteers, including 60 shop assistants, plus small groups who organise the morning papers, deal with daily purchasing and other ordering, manage the laundry and dry-cleaning, keep the shop spick and span and cashing up.

The celebration also gave a huge thank you to everyone who has made the store a reality by supporting it, whether financially, with time, hard work, through the Committee or simply with good wishes.

The community shop will move in the summer of next year as part of the refurbishment of the village hall which will provide a purpose-built home for the store.