As the seemingly unstoppable tide of “artificial intelligence” sweeps over the world, the Abbotts Ann Village Shop remains a bastion of humanity.

During the Village Fete the door of the shop was wide open to those from near and far, a sanctuary of refreshment for weary wanderers; a friendly corner in a dark, vast universe. We had an even more successful year than previously. Human or non-human (dogs and alpacas included), well done to all who contributed.

We welcome new regular volunteers Kate and Tamsin, and it’s been great having Jill kindly helping out whilst she’s staying in the village. They have been making waves providing some youthful energy to the atmosphere (not that it was in short supply) and have been diligently dealing with every aspect of daily shop duties.

We are always in need of new volunteers; you don’t need to be based in the Village either. Feel free to ask in the shop for more info! Alas, we are not accepting alpaca applications (they have a reputation for eating on the job).

The keen-eyed amongst you may still not have noticed the incredible workmanship on fixing the shop sign, damage to which was a slight thorn in the front of the shop. The split in the wood would prove no match for the joinery skills of Adam Rose (assisted by Steve Randall). We join together in thanking him.

The summer heatwaves may be lapsing, but who doesn’t love a cheeky choc chip ice cream under some overcast clouds? Maybe some moreish Mud Pies under more frequent grey skies? Pop on down to peruse our produce, chill out with a coffee and some chit chat, or marvel at the multitudes of our considerable confectionery section. Perhaps some marshmallow for a marvelous fellow? There’s a new flavour of Tunnock’s Teacakes for the dark chocolate dilettante.

Face to face interaction will always remain a core part of village life; whatever may be going on in the world your local Village Shop is the place to go, the place to be seen and the place to remind yourself that good still exists in this world.

Henry Flood – Tuesday Baker

Goodbye Julia

When you have been working alongside someone for over four years and have a very good relationship with them, it is hard to say goodbye.

 

But that is what the shop staff and I had to do on Monday 9th October, Julias last day as Manager of the shop after working here for five years.

 

We had a little get together to wish her all the best in her retirement, I know that she will be missed.

 

Thank you to all those who helped to organise this and supplied nibbles, very grateful.

 

Welcome Beverly

Many of you would already know that I have taken on the role as Manager, but have you met Beverly yet? Beverly steps into my shoes as Deputy Manager and now works on Tuesday, Wednesday morning and Thursday, please stop by and give her a warm Abbotts Ann Village welcome!

 

Christmas

So, Christmas is around the corner (I know – but we have to prepare!) and of course we will be decorating the shop, filling it up with wonderful food and an amazing atmosphere.

 

We will, of course, be getting ready to take your Christmas orders, fruit & veg, turkeys, Chalkstream Trout etc..

 

In order to kick all of this, we will be having a Christmas Mulled Wine & Mince Pie Night on Friday 17th November, 17.30 – 19.00.

 

Please come and visit us, support us on this evening, fill out your orders and baskets and have a fun evening!  See you there!

Judeth Dashwood – Manager