Like so many rural villages, Ermington lost its last village shop in the mid-2000s. Busy lifestyles, parking difficulties, increasing costs and convenience shopping online and at supermarkets meant the traditional style of shop was no longer profitable.

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But a village shop isn't just a place of business. It's a hub for the whole parish, a local spot to exchange news, make connections and build our community. In 2019, a group of residents came together to develop our fortnightly market, Ermington Sustainable Saturdays, into a permanent shop and cafe facility.

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Funds were raised by selling community shares, a local architect drew up plans, a local builder converted the space and a management committee was formed. We have one paid shop manager - everyone else is a volunteer, giving their time and expertise freely for the good of the village and surrounding parish.