Hurst villagers are being sent a clear message and that is to use the village shop to stop it from closing down. A large banner has been erected outside Hurst Cricket Club clearly stating its message ‘Use it or lose it’. The signs are sponsored by the Hurst Village Society.
My Wokingham had previously reported a heartfelt plea from the shop manager to help save the shop from closure. It would have left many villagers isolated, especially those without transport. The village store is the only shop in Hurst and is a source of social activity for many elderly villagers. See Hurst Village Shop Closure
At the 11th hour, the owners of the village store saved it from permanent closure, giving it a temporary reprieve. They now want to see if local people will support the store by using it more regularly and stop it from closing.
My Wokingham took several enquiries from the local business community interested in taking over the business and passed these on to the owners. Hopefully with such a large sign and the publicity around the closure both villagers and passing trade will help the store become a profitable operation.
Photos by Paul King