The owners of the Wheel of Fortune pub, in Alpington, Norfolk, have opened a village store in support of their local community.
The shop was officially opened by ITV Anglia news presenter David Whiteley.
Publicans Naomi Shulver and Barry Gelder took over The Wheel of Fortune in March 2022, after purchasing the freehold. They have worked hard to ensure the pub offers something for everyone, improving facilities such as the beer garden and children’s play area, and opening two log cabins for overnight visitors.
The pub has already become the hub of the local community, running events such as Chatty Café to help people overcome loneliness and social isolation.
The publicans soon realised there was a need for a village store as there is limited transport in the area and the nearest supermarket is a number of miles away.
Expert help and a Community Services Fund grant from Pub is The Hub was provided to support the opening of the store, in a transformed storage unit.
Barry Gelder said: “We are planning to work in collaboration with other local businesses to make sure we stock more local produce. This is a pub for all people, and we want everyone to have a warm welcome.”
Regional advisor for Pub is The Hub, Terry Stork, said: “This is a pub that is really at the heart of its community. This important village store will support people living in the local area and will also help them to overcome social isolation.”
