A SUCCESSFUL first year of trading is in the bag for a community shop.

Volunteers at Alfrick and Lulsley Community Shop marked the first anniversary with a special homemade cake in the shape of the shop complete with bunting.

Alan Soper, chairman of Alfrick and Lulsley Community Shop Ltd, said that in its first year the community shop had more than reached their expectations.

He said: “Turnover is ahead of target, the number of volunteers continues to increase, we have brought Post Office services back to the village and we have grown our range of local and fresh products.

“It has led to both a useful village facility and a great centre for everyone to come and chat during the day.”