VILLAGERS are refusing to let their local shop and post office die.

The stores in Micheldever, north of Winchester, faced closure after proprietors Bill and Gail Giles left shortly after Christmas.

However, a committee of volunteers has taken over the running of the shop in Church Street - the only shop left in the village.

Parish councillors have approved emergency funding of up to £1,500, which means that the shop can pay its bills and restock.

A meeting in Northbrook Hall on Saturday, February 23, will discuss the future.

Volunteers Brian Cutler, of Micheldever Stores Steering Committee, said that the shop was currently trading profitably but only because it was being staffed by volunteers.

Gina Ireland, a village resident, has been running the post office as temporary postmistress since last summer.

Jim Clark, who runs Barton Stacey Post Office and Stores, has taken over the newspaper delivery round and is now supplying the shop with papers.

The store has been re-stocked with groceries, including fresh fruit and vegetables. Plans in the pipeline include applying for a licence to sell alcohol, and longer opening hours.

The shop and next door house are still for sale through Christie and Co, with an asking price of £375,000, and it is possible that any new owner will simply close the store.