Archive - Wednesday, 4 August 2004


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Relief as closure-hit shop finds new home

A 'VITAL' grocery store threatened with closure because of a row between the manager and owner has found a new home, much to the relief of residents.

Tintern Stores in the picturesque Monmouthshire village of Tintern has been run by Stan Smith for five years and is the only grocery serving villages in the area.

But a row over opening times and the noise of early deliveries since Mr Smith started a newsagent business led to owner Dawn Floyd, who lives above the shop, giving Mr Smith his notice.

News that Tintern Stores must cease trading from its current premises by August 31 concerned villagers who also campaigned in vain against the shock closure of Tintern's post office last year.

But, Rob Klinkert, the owner of nearby Tintern Garage has come to the rescue, offering the back of his premises in the village as a new, permanent home for the store.

Mr Klinkert said: "Tintern needs a shop - without a shop everyone just goes from home to work and back home without seeing each other in between."

Mr Smith, aged 63, said: "I am so grateful to Rob and also to the community who have shown great support since this upsetting business began.

"There's a bit of work to do on the new premises but I am confident we can open quickly enough not leave the village without a shop."

Mr Smith, a father-of-two who previously ran a shop in Rogiet, said: "I will manage the store until I am 70 and then see what happens."

Sue Groves, a resident of nearby Brockweir said: "The loss of Tintern stores would have been devastating for the village. Apart from the loss of facility, the store is a central hub of the community.

"It is vital as the focal point for notices, news and local fund-raising. A visit to the shop is the social high point of the day for many people."

Mrs Floyd, who said she has been upset by the reaction to her decision from local residents, said:

"This is brilliant news for everyone. Now we can all get on with our lives."