Market traders and public attend official opening of Ashton Hayes Community Shop

Mar 11 2010 by Ben Coulbeck, Chester Chronicle

Market traders and public attend official opening of Ashton Hayes Community Shop

CHEERS and applause greeted the cutting of the ribbons at the officially opening of Ashton Hayes Community Shop.

Residents, market traders, volunteers and Cheshire West and Chester Council officials attended the ceremony, which marks the culmination of hundreds of hours of community work.

More than £30,000 in fundraising has also helped to convert the Kelsall Road premises into a community shop, designed to meet the needs of locals.

The decision to fund a new shop was made by residents and parish council members after the local post office decided against continuing its retail section. Postmistress Helen Rimmer, who will continue in her current role, cut the ribbons to the shop.

CWaC’s environment portfolio holder and Deputy Lord Mayor of Chester Neil Ritchie delivered a congratulatory speech while a mini market was held to showcase various products.

Shop manager Deb Deynem said: “We had a very good turnout and the community spirit has become very apparent in this village.

“We are trying to cater for local residents by stocking local produce from local suppliers.

“It is going really well and we have got support from the Going Carbon Neutral project team who have a display in the corner of the shop.”

The Ashton Hayes Community Shop is open Monday to Friday from 7.30am-6pm; Saturday 7.30am-5pm and Sunday 8am-12pm. For further information call 01829 751210.