Auchencairn’s community-owned shop and cafe is back in business after a major revamp.
The premises was closed for refurbishment following the departure of the previous leaseholders.
The makeover includes a new floor, increased space and redecoration of the interior.
A team of resident volunteers worked over two weekends to get the shop ready for reopening on Monday.
They emptied the premises, cleaned equipment and had the store fully operational just a week later.
Anne Williams, the chairperson of owners Auchencairn Initiative, said: “Without residents’ support and a team of over 20 volunteers we would be without a greatly valued resource which keeps our village alive and attractive.
“We got grants of £4,000 from South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) for the floor and another for consultancy work to help us secure a grant from the Plunkett Foundation.
“SOSE have really supported us and we are grateful for that because right now small businesses need all the help they can get.
“Without our volunteers, the bodies that support us with capital and training, and the local community, keeping this business going would not be possible.”
Auchencairn residents took over management of the shop in April last year to prevent it from closing.
A mix of volunteers and paid staff run the shop, which boasts groceries, fresh local organic milk, fruit and vegetables, household goods and a cafe.
Products such as detergent and washing up liquid are bought in bulk so people can bring in their plastic bottles and fill up.
Anne said: “We get all the local residents in for milk, bread and essentials.
“Lots of people come in for coffee and van drivers for their bacon butties.
“It’s a proper eating place for older people too and nice and warm.
“And we are always sold out for order-only takeaway fish suppers, stone baked pizzas and on curry nights.
“The shop really is the hub of the village – that’s what it means to us.
“On Saturdays we always take on young people aged 16 to 18 who we pay at the proper rate.
“It’s good training and a good opportunity for them to learn about working.”
Anne also thanked the previous leaseholders for their hard work in building up the business.
She said: “Their circumstances changed and they decided to give it up.
“They always said it was short-term and we are very grateful for what they did. They set up the shop as a workable model that we have continued.
“They showed it would work if the community took it on.
“We have a fantastic steering group made up of residents from the village.”
