'Nothing short of a lifesaver': Northamptonshire village shop awarded for customer service during coronavirus pandemic

A Northamptonshire village shop ran mostly by volunteers has been rewarded for its service to its customers during the coronavirus pandemic with an award.

Sulgrave Village Shop and Post Office received a Rose of Northamptonshire award from the Lord Lieutenant, the High Sheriff and Northamptonshire County Council.

A spokesperson for the management committee said they have made an enormous effort to support the community and gone the extra mile to ensure those at greatest risk are being looked after.

"For many local residents, especially those who are shielding and unable to visit supermarkets, the service provided by Sulgrave Village Shop has been nothing short of a lifesaver," they said.

"This latest award is just recognition for the outstanding effort made by the staff and volunteers who run the shop to support the local community during these dark times."

The Magpie Road store was set up 17 years ago and is staffed by two part-time workers and numerous volunteers from the surrounding area.

The shop has been made as safe as possible with the installation of perspex screens separating till operators and the obligatory use of masks, hand-sanitisers and surface-sprays.

In-person shopping has been replaced with a collection system during the third lockdown while elderly and vulnerable customers can have their orders delivered by volunteers.

The Rose of Northamptonshire award was presented to the committee virtually last week and a plaque will soon be displayed in the shop.