The village shop is seen to be a vital resource in maintaining the supply of food and other essentials, especially to those who may be self-isolating now or in the future as a result of the Covid-19 epidemic. Ian has drawn up a very rigorous policy document to explain what measures are being taken to ensure that the shop can remain open, and to ensure the safety of staff and customers. Well worth the read.

The plan remains for HOTV to take over the operation of the shop from 1st April. The Covid-19 crisis is already having a major impact on our volunteer training program, but HOTV is taking measures to ensure that there will a plan B in place to ensure continuity, and Ian’s policy above will become the policy of the new management.

In addition to the points covered in the policy, we are planning a free home delivery service manned by volunteers. It is not yet clear exactly how this will be co-ordinated, but if you are self-isolating for whatever reason and need to take advantage of it, please contact the shop on 07837 764367 or info@stokevillagestores.co.uk. (If you would like to volunteer your services, or for any other coronavirus-related questions, please email pcssgcv@gmail.com.)