FIVE years after it opened, Exbourne’s unique community shop and café The Burrow has been described as a ‘huge success’ and an ‘inspiration’ to others.

Mel Stride, the MP for Central Devon said: ‘The Burrow has been a huge success, providing a valuable amenity and post office service to residents not just in Exbourne but neighbouring parishes as well.

‘I know it has been especially use-ful for residents who don’t drive and can’t easily get to Hatherleigh, North Tawton or Okehampton. It is an inspiration to communities who have lost their post office or last shop that with a vision and a lot of hard work rural communities can fight back. Everyone involved should be very proud.’

Selling everyday groceries, the shop has been going from strength to strength since it opened in 2012. On July 26, customers, volunteers and local councillors gathered to cut a cake to mark the occasion, at a special event in the purpose built underground shop.

Local borough and county Councillor James McInnes (pictured) said: ‘I can’t believe it’s five years since The Burrow opened. It not only gives Exbourne and the wider area an excellent shop, but you can also drop in for tea, cake or lunch.

‘The Saturday morning breakfast is very popular. All this has been achieved by a dedicated team of residents. Firstly, in achieving planning permission in difficult circumstances and secondly in giving a friendly and comprehensive service.

‘The design of the shop is very innovative, making best use of the site and I’m not surprised the whole enterprise is getting awards.’

Sally Hordern was one of the people who campaigned to get The Burrow built, after the village shop and post office closed. Sally said: ‘It’s amazing what we’ve been able to achieve in the last five years. Everyone involved in The Burrow is incredibly proud of it. It’s such a big achievement for a small village.’ 

The Burrow has one full time member of staff, but volunteers play a massive part in keeping the shop and café going.

The Burrow is often highlighted as a role model for other villages wanting to set up their own community shops. Most recently it was used as a case-study by the national organisation The Rural Coalition in its report into the future of the countryside.