MORE than £2,500 was raised and over 160 £10 shares sold at the inaugural meeting of The Clatfords Shop Association. Villagers heard how the association plans to fund and run the shop, which is likely to see the change over sometime during the summer.

Association chairman Jo Winchcombe said: "It was incredibly reassuring that nearly a third of the population of Goodworth Clatford attended our first meeting.

"We were also encouraged to see such a good turn-out from residents of Upper Clatford."

Both the Upper Clatford and Goodworth Clatford Parish Councils have pledged their full support for the venture.

Goodworth Clat-ford council has already made a grant to the association of £1,500 to help with its immediate start-up and fundraising costs.

Financial support from the parish councils, in addition to community fundraising, will enable the association to apply for and obtain substantial grants from Test Valley Borough Council and Hamp-shire County Coun-cil, as well as from central government sources.

Financial officer David Colpman said: "Each £10 share entitles every holder to attend and vote at the annual meeting of The Clatfords Shop Association.

"Each person is entitled to hold one share and, while no dividends can be paid, any surpluses from the shop will be put back into good causes from the local villages."

And vice-chairman Oliver Madge added: "The future is looking very bright for the shop, especially if we can raise the funds necessary to both enlarge the shop and expand the range of goods and services on offer.

"This is now looking increasingly likely."