SHOPKEEPER Roger Clements has decided to sell the village shop in Sherston. Mr Clements, 60, who lives on the shop premises in Sherston High Street has been running the business for 20 years.

He has been forced to retire because of problems with his health.

He feels this is a great opportunity for new and younger blood to take over a successful and essential village business.

"The shop is a success story, we didn't want to let it go," he said.

"I had some stroke warnings last year and the doctor has told me that I should avoid stress.

"We certainly want to control the purchase and sale of the property to make sure whoever buys doesn't sell it off.

"We want to make sure that the sale of the property is done sympathetically towards the village which has supported us and we should treat them well in return."

The Grade II-listed shop comes with planning permission to convert the adjoining garage into a shop and a flat above.

It will be sold on the market as a going concern under a sealed bid scheme.

Mr Clements said: "I am a bit old to start expanding. If I was to start building I would only see the return of my investment when I am 70.

"I think it would be ideal from some young people to take over."

The shop and post office are run separately. The post office is under the management of Howard Greenman, who also runs the post offices at Pewsham and Hullavington.

Mr Greenman is hopeful that the shop will be sold as a going concern.

"When I took over Sherston post office I was particularly struck by the community spirit and feeling of belonging within the village. It is this spirit that has helped the village survive and thrive, the business community included, " he said.

Mr Clements expects the business to be sold within 12 months. "We intend to suggest to prospective buyers that our established grocery and bakery trade move into the expanded building, so that the post office could remain and expand in the existing shop," he said.