Community shop shuts down after latest break-in

Burglars seem to be winning the battle against a community store in East Garston

BURGLARS are winning the battle against a community store after volunteer staff were forced to shut down following the latest break-in.

East Garston Village Shop has not traded since it suffered its fifth break-in on January 13.

Raiders caused extensive damage while disabling security measures before making off with three charity boxes, spirits and cigarettes.

The community venture came to fruition in April 2009 and was run by volunteers with a full time manager but has been plagued by burglaries.

Parish council clerk Alan Breadmore said: “It broke their back. They lost heart because of all the money we were losing and it was going nowhere. The sad thing is, the core customers were elderly villagers who couldn't travel and used to do their weekly shop there. It was so convenient for them and for the rest of the village, too.”

Last Autumn Sue Rendell, who runs the sub post office and village shop in Aldbourne, took it on but Mr Breadmore said: “She couldn't make it work either after the break-ins continued. Interested parties have tried to find a way forward but for now, it remains closed.”

Chairman of the village hall trustees, Ed James, said: “We'd like the shop to continue if anyone wants to volunteer but, at this stage, we're open to alternative suggestions. If, for example, anyone came up with a business plan for the premises, we'd look favourably upon it.

“Ideally it would be something which would be of benefit to the community.”

Anyone who has a useful suggestion, or who might be able to volunteer, is invited to contact Mr James via e-mail at edjames@sportingagenda.co.uk or by telephone on 01488 680 456.

Neighbourhood police officer Pc Claire Drewitt said: “Obviously we are very keen for any information regarding this latest incident because for a small community shop, this has had devastating effects and they may struggle to recover.

“We are working closely with another force to continue our investigation into the break in as similar incidents occurred in the same week with similar methods used to gain entry and similar property was taken. The investigation is still ongoing but any information from members of the public may aid our inquires further.”

Pc Drewitt can be contacted via the main switchboard number 0845 8 505 505.