VILLAGERS in Woodgreen could lose their shop and post office if a new buyer is not found by the end of the year.

Brian Corby has owned the small stores in the centre of the village since November 1999, which he ran with his wife Merryl, until three years ago when ill health forced him to give up.

The couple still live in a property at the back of the shop and rent the lock-up shop front to Roger and Barbara Cunningham, who have kept the place going.

But now the Cunninghams want to give up, which could mean the end of the road for the village shop and post office.

"When we bought the shop it was facing closure and we were the last chance for it then," remembers Mr Corby.

"People have said to me that they chose to live in Woodgreen because of its shop and pub.

"And many villages now don't have both."

Mr Corby said it would take about £7,000 to keep the place going, and he is hoping that if one person does not come forward to take it on, villagers will form a co-operative to ensure its survival.

"It's a good little business," he said.

"It is hard work, but for somebody willing to put the effort in, the rewards are there.

"There are not many village shops these days and it really is appreciated."

Word about the possible closure has not sunk in among villagers yet, said Mr Corby.

However, one Woodgreen resident said it would be a tragedy if the shop went.

"Everybody uses it to buy their bread, milk and their local newspaper.

"And it's always handy to get the odd grocery that you run out of."

Anyone interested in finding out more should call Brian Corby on 01725 513332.