Kentish Express Ashford & District
Hunt for helpers as work on Post Office progresses
Volunteers needed for new community plan
Volunteers are needed for a new community-run Post Office and stores as construction work continues apace.
The service will be based in the building that is being constructed in the overflow car park at the front of Smarden Charter Hall, with work nearing completion.
In a direct appeal for volunteers, Hilary Fitzsimons, a member of the shop management committee, said: “Here’s an exciting chance to volunteer to be part of the shop’s success story from the very beginning.
“The build is already reaching its final stages with work on the interior fit about to start, so this would be an ideal time to join us in this exciting venture.”
Since the closure of the old Post Office in The Street, villagers have been relying on an outreach service in the Charter Hall, but all that is set to change.
Residents have led plans for the Post Office and stores, raising a total of £89,675 through a community share offer, which was matched funded by the Power to Change share booster programme to the sum of £175,000.
Smarden resident Fran Lester said that getting to the final stages of the project was “something to shout about”.
There will be a cafe in the building, which also has wide wheelchair-accessible aisles, a toilet and baby-changing area.
A variety of roles are available for potential volunteers, with hours to suit.
Anyone interested is asked to email Smardenshop@gmail.com
Hilary added: “We’re also hosting an opportunity for anyone who’s interested to come and meet us, the shop management committee, some of our volunteers and see the shop itself on Saturday, February 1 at the Charter Hall, Chessenden Lane, between 10.30am to 1pm.
“We’d really love to meet you and would be thrilled should you decide to join us.”
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‘It’s an exciting chance to volunteer to be part of the shop’s success story from the very beginning.. the build is already reaching its final stages...’