Back where we belong - in words and pictures
- andrewchatfield
- Jul 28, 2025
- 2 min read
We’re really back! Perranwell Community Stores opened its doors in the refurbished village shop on July 27, 2025, almost exactly two years since the old store and post office closed in July 2023.
Above and below you can see some pictures from this historic day.
We were joined by dozens of residents, who checked out the new shelves, bought lots of groceries and grabbed a complimentary coffee in our new Community Corner, a space to take the weight off your feet and chill.
The whole project was made possible by the generosity of our shareholders, volunteers and customers - and of course of the new owner of the store building, Jan Moore.
Chairman of our stores committee David Podd said: “A huge thank you to those volunteers and committee members who have worked so hard over the past week to facilitate our move. It’s amazing to think that it was two years ago when the old store suddenly closed and we all came to the rescue with a visionary plan.”
He continued: “We have now come full circle and are back in our beautiful new original store - its rightful place at the centre of our village. Every single one of us should be so very proud of this achievement. We have all created a legacy and given the village the opportunity of having a store for the next generation.”
Store opening hours remain the same and from Tuesday we will have the first delivery from our main supplier and our full, expanded range on display.
Sunday was a ‘soft' relaunch. Watch this space and our Facebook page for news of a Grand Re-Opening Celebration in August, when we will also conduct the Summer Shareholders’ Prize Draw.
David added: “It is important that we don't ever lose sight of our true purpose, values and our trading blueprint. For as long as we have loyal customers and committed volunteers our Community Store will always to continue thrive.
“Thanks again to each and every one of you. You have been amazing.”
Thanks to David Podd, Liz Lee and Graeme McCallum for these lovely photos. Click on the thumbnails to see the full image.
A truly amazing story that should be highlighted in National News bulletins. It signifies what is possible when enthusiasm for ‘something good’ is picked up and persevered with to a successful conclusion. Heartiest congratulations to those who have achieved success with such a worthwhile project.