A COMMUNITY shop is finally celebrating winning the Queens Award for Volunteers, after receiving the award in 2021.

Dryslwyn Community Shop will receive the award from Sara Edwards, Lord Lieutenant of Dyfed, on August 12.

Celebrations will begin at 10.30am on the Friday morning, with cake and light refreshments available for those attending, with all welcome to join in.

The shop and post office were both due to close in 2009, which would have seen no post office at the location for the first time in 157 years.

A director of the shop said: “The local community pulled together and took over the shop and post office by forming a non-for-profit company.

“This is run by 35 friendly volunteers on the counter and behind the scenes, for our community.”

South Wales Guardian: The shop decorated when the award was announcedThe shop decorated when the award was announced

After many years, the shop received its deserved recognition in 2021 for its service to the community, when it was announced the shop had received the Queens Award for Volunteers.

The award was given for saving the residents a 12-mile journey to the nearest post office and shop, as well as reducing rural isolation by providing a community hub.

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The shop also aims to stock locally grown, healthy and environmentally friendly stock.

Last year, land was donated for a new building for the shop, next to its current location, with more scope for seating and parking.

“Details of the planning application, which is about to be submitted, were presented to the public recently,” explained project chair Nigel Jones.

“We look forward to providing more feedback and discussion with residents over this as well as efforts to gain funding, when we are able to.” The shop is also always keen to add to its pool of volunteers.

South Wales Guardian: The front of Dryslwyn Community ShopThe front of Dryslwyn Community Shop