Kirtlington community shop and cafe wins national award

The Kirtlington Community Shop and Café in Oxfordshire claimed the ‘One To Watch’ title at the Plunkett UK Rural Community Awards, which celebrate achievements in rural community business across the UK.

Committee members Raj Chandegra and Michael Shackleton attended the London ceremony to receive the award.

Mr Chandegra said: “It’s a fantastic honour for us to be recognised for what we’ve achieved so far with the project.

“When our old shop closed, something was missing from the village.

“Social connections became much weaker.

“This new purpose-built facility which is still being built will bring back something really important to our community when it’s finished.”

Kirtlington’s project also received a £10,500 grant from the National Lottery Community Fund to help complete and fit out the building.

Mr Chandegra said: “It’s fantastic that The National Lottery Community Fund has recognised our work as well.

“Thanks to National Lottery players we’re that little bit closer to opening up this new community resource that will befit so many people in the village.”

Plunkett UK, the Woodstock-based charity behind the awards, supports rural communities in establishing and running businesses under community ownership.

Mr Shackleton said: “From day one, Plunkett have guided us through every stage and the advice we’ve received has been invaluable.”