There are changes too at No. 9 Victoria Road, where Ronnie and Shirley Atkinson have sold their business in order to retire and have a well deserved rest. They have served the community for five years, with three at No.10 and two since relocating to No.9. Shirley, whose back room is now like a florist’s shop, is overwhelmed by all the gifts and cards which they have received and wishes to say “Thank You” to all the customers who have supported the business. It is not really goodbye, because the Atkinsons will continue to be familiar faces at tabletop sales in Victoria Hall and in the Caroline Street Club.

The new newsagents will be a young couple, Paul Treadwell and Deborah Bird. They live locally with their 18-month-old son Keane. Paul will be well known to many customers as he used to be a postman in the Village. This is their first commercial venture and they hope to continue the business as it is.