We came to the rescue af ter isle sent SOS (that’s save our shop!)
IT came as a huge blow for the 163 islanders that their lifeline post office faced almost certain closure.
But the only shop on Luing, Argyll, has been given a stay of execution after a couple decided to take up the cudgels – and save islanders a ferry trip to the mainland.
Long-time residents Birgit Whitmore, 52, and Norman Bissell, 72, vowed to keep the vital asset going after news that the Isle of Luing Store and Post Office was scheduled to close this month.
The shop, which had been advertised for sale by previous owner Gordon Robbie, sells groceries, household goods, cards and work by local artists.
A community bus brings older residents to the shop on certain days from the village of Toberonochy, three miles away.
Before taking on the Luing store, Mrs Whitmore ran the craft and wool shop Whitmore & Hamilton in Oban for 11 years. She is also an artist and the owner of The Island Kitchen on Luing.
Mrs Whitmore said: ‘Many thanks to Gordon Robbie for all his hard work and great ideas which have built up Luing Store and Post Office, extended its range of produce and made it such an attractive place to visit.
‘The people of Luing are very grateful for all he has done to achieve so much. We will continue to extend the range of local produce and arts on offer and aim to provide the best service possible to everyone who lives on Luing and to our many visitors.’
She added: ‘We will build on what has been achieved and are looking forward to doing so.’
Mr Bissell is a well-known author and poet, former principal teacher of history and area officer for the Educational Institute of Scotland teachers’ union.
He served as vice-chairman of the Isle of Luing Community Trust, which built the awardwinning Atlantic Islands Centre on Luing.
Mr Bissell said: ‘We had to hit the ground running after we took it over at the start of the month.
‘It’s quite a learning curve for me but I’m enjoying meeting and welcoming folk from all over the island and visitors who drop in to the shop whom I wouldn’t otherwise see when I’m writing on my computer. It’s been very enjoyable so far.’
He added: ‘It’s a challenge but we are determined to make a success of this vital asset for the Luing community.’
Luing Community Council convener Mike Barlow said: ‘It’s great news that local residents Birgit and Norrie have taken over Luing Stores and Post Office.
‘Our wee shop plays a big part in helping sustain our island community and we wish them all the best for the future.’