Bigton Community Enterprise Ltd
20120417-8997
PRESS RELEASE
Wednesday April 18th 2012
Bigton Community Shop – Under New ManagementThe ownership of the shop in Bigton was transferred to the Bigton Community Enterprise Ltd on Saturday April 14th and was renamed the Bigton Community Shop reflecting its new status as a co operative for the benefit of the community.
A cheque and flowers were presented to Dunese Fullerton outgoing owner as the keys were handed over to newly appointed shop manager Caroline Smith. Over 20 volunteers worked over the weekend to prepare the shop for its first day of trading on Monday. In addition to the shop manager, the shop will be staffed by volunteers initially.
The shop is being restocked and has added some new range of products from Scoop and the Co operative shop in Lerwick in addition to the supply of vegetables, fresh fish and meat from local producers. The shop opening hours are to remain the same for the short term.
Mrs Fullerton will continue to act as sub post mistress to ensure the Post Office remains open whilst transfer arrangements are progressed as the Post Office is seen as an integral part of the shop and an important asset for the community.
An official opening event is planned for Saturday June 23rd.
Chairman of the Bigton Community Enterprise Rick Nickerson said: “The Committee are delighted that the project has reached another milestone in keeping both the shop and Post Office open. This could not have been achieved without the support of the community and assistance from agencies such as Shetland Islands Council and Highland and Islands Enterprise through the Business Gateway, SocialFirmsScotland, the Big Lottery and The Co-operative Enterprise Hub. I would also like to acknowledge the role of Dunese in the smooth transition and in particular her patience on the time it has taken to reach this point.”
Links