West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin joined hundreds of local people to celebrate the opening of a new village store in Alfrick. And the MP was asked to formally open the new building which has a café and Post Office as well as selling a wide range of local produce. The new store replaces a temporary portacabin which has been used since the store resumed operation in the village in 2012. The store is owned and run by community volunteers it has also had funding from sources including the Prince’s Countryside Fund and the Power to Change Trust which is part of the Big Lottery Fund. Harriett commented: “I am immensely proud of the work put in by local people to bring about the return of the village shop and post office and it is such an amazing community facility. “Alfrick’s residents have put in a huge effort to get to this point and their work is a great example to other communities who would like to see a return of local services. “I have been glad to support the team as they carry out this project and very satisfied to see it come to a positive conclusion. I’m a regular shopper at the store and I hope local people will do their best to pop in and show their support.” Alan Soper, who is chairman of the community shop, added: “This has been a great achievement by a lot of people and a fine demonstration of what can be achieved when people come together for a common aim. Alfrick's shop is now an established facility for the long term - it is our generation's gift to the future.” Photo: Harriett Baldwin MP cuts the celebration cake marking the opening of the new Alfrick Village Store with chairman Alan Soper.