A group of local volunteers formed Humshaugh Community Ventures and stepped in when the shop faced closure. It now raises enough profit to support other local projects.
The Big Society Award comes as the volunteers celebrate 4 years since they took over the shop. Since 2009 they have refitted the shop and organised a volunteer workforce of 50 people to run the business. It is open 7 days a week, serving the needs of the community and raising significant profits that are re-invested back in to the community through over £18,000 worth of grants to local projects.
Prime Minister David Cameron said:
Humshaugh village captured the spirit of the big society when they were faced with the closure of their only village shop.
Local people got together to keep this hub of community life open and 4 years on its still going strong.
I’m delighted to be recognising the hard work and dedication of Humshaugh Community Ventures with this Big Society Award.
Chairman of Humshaugh Community Ventures Dick Moules said:
I am absolutely thrilled that the community of Humshaugh has been recognised with a Big Society Award. When we took over the village shop we never dreamt that it would lead to this. It is thanks to the many volunteers giving a few hours a week that we are able to support a wide variety of village groups and individuals. This award recognises their hard work and dedication and makes it even more worthwhile.
Find out more about the Big Society Awards.