The Hurst village community are reeling after its last remaining shop is set to close on April 11. The village shop has become the heart of the community and has been present for more than 100 years.
The sad news that the Hurst village store will close its shop doors for the final time on April 11 has been a bit of a shock for villagers. The nearest shops will be in Twyford or Winnersh, a long way to travel for a pint of milk or the daily newspaper. It’s particularly sad for those who don’t have any transport available to them. Many of the elderly community will feel it the most and the decision may serve to isolate them. Many would use the store to have a conversation and to use its facilities.
Manager Jayne Overington said: “I have been here for more than 11 years and I feel very sad at the shop’s closure, plus my staff will have to find new work.”
She added: “I feel very sad for our older folk who don’t drive. I will miss the friendly faces popping into the village store each day. Also, villagers could well be left without a post office.”
The reason for the closure is unclear at this time.