HIS IS one of the most welcome faces in the New Forest village of Pilley.

Jim Gibb, 61, is the new man behind the counter at Pilley Stores and post office.

The former engineering consultant from Norleywood is modest about his role in saving one of the locality's main assets.

"I was just looking for something useful to do with my time and energy now I'm retired," said Jim.

"My family is right behind me. My daughters have been marvellous and my wife has revealed it was always her childhood dream to run a shop."

Pilley Stores and post office were previously run by local mum Julie Downs. She announced at the beginning of the year that she wanted to return to nursing.

The community set up a Save Our Shop campaign but they did not have to search far for Julie's replacement. Jim lives less than two miles from the shop.

He has already stamped his own mark, introducing fresh fruit and vegetables and bakery products supplied by Hazelcopse farm shop near Beaulieu.

Pilley Stores regular Charlotte Boxall, who lives near Boldre and is spokesman for the Village Retail Services Association (ViRSA) is delighted that the shop has been saved.

"Villagers were worried when Julie said she didn't plan to renew her lease. But she generously gave plenty of warning.

"A village store has to work as a business, not just helping the community.

"There are a lot of good local shops about and ViRSA helps speed up networking between busy shopkeepers so they can exchange ideas."