PLANS to transform Kennerleigh Stores were shown to local Member of Parliament Mel Stride on Saturday, June 11.

The MP for Central Devon visited the village to meet with County Councillor, Mrs Margaret Squires and Adrian Miller, who chairs the Kennerleigh and District Community Benefit Society, which runs the shop and Post Office.

Mid Devon District Council recently granted planning permission to expand and modernise the premises, while retaining its historical heritage.

Mr Miller explained: “Kennerleigh Stores serves hundreds of residents in Kennerleigh and neighbouring communities such as Woolfardisworthy, Thelbridge, Black Dog, Washford Pyne, Puddington and Poughill.

“It is a valuable community hub, supporting local growers, producers, and craft-folk, as well as providing both essentials and a remarkable array of quality gifts and specialist foodstuffs.

“Our plans to make the shop and Post Office fit for the 21^st Century will make it more accessible and sustainable.”

Cllr Squires, who pushed for the planning application to be approved, said: “Kennerleigh Stores is a real focal point of the community and the plans to transform the building will benefit customers and safeguard its future.

“I’m pleased Mel has taken such an interest and came here to see the plans for himself.”

Mr Stride added: “The plans Adrian showed me look fantastic.

“I’m glad that historical features of the building and the red telephone box outside will be preserved.

“I am already looking forward to coming back to Kennerleigh to see the end result.”

For more information and opening hours visit: www.kennerleigh.com .