New Beginnings
When Brigitte, the long-serving owner of the village shop and post office, decided to sell up, we realised we would lose not just a place to buy essentials, but a vital meeting point and lifeline for many. In response, a group of determined villagers came together to create something new—a shop leased, run, and enjoyed by the community. And so, the Dittisham Community Store was born.
Our Story
The Dittisham Community Store has come a long way in a short time.
From a single act of generosity to a thriving hub at the heart of village life, here's the story so far...
It all began in June 2025 when villager Tom Leeman stepped in to purchase the shop and agreed to lease it back to the community. By August, the shop was cleared and reorganised, thanks to the dedication of over 50 volunteers and our co-managers, Elaine and Clare. After forming a Management Committee and with guidance from Plunkett UK and feedback from our community survey, we established a Community Benefit Society, secured a 25-year lease, and proudly moved back into our original village shop building. Our new manager, Inka, joined us along with our assistant manager, Faye and part-time shop assistant, Megan. Working with a team of dedicated and positive volunteers, they have created a vibrant and welcoming community shop. We now provide a wide variety of locally sourced products, fresh produce, everyday essentials and local gifts and crafts we are committed to working with and supporting our local farmers, artists and suppliers. We also provide an essential hub for people to meet, connect, and engage with one another, which is essential for a rural community with no public transport.
Village Shop Circa 1970s
Village Shop 2025
Back in original premises
Meet The Team
Inka, Manager
Faye, Co-Assistant Manager
Victoria,
Co-Assistant Manager
Megan, Sales Assistant
Our Volunteers
Volunteers are the backbone of our shop. Almost entirely run by local volunteers, the shop reinvests profits into its running costs for the benefit of the community. A small elected committee oversees operations, supported by over 50 volunteers who help staff the shop on a rota, all under the guidance of our full-time Shop Manager, Inka. Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds have come together, making the store a genuine reflection of village life. Volunteering here has created new connections across the village, reducing isolation and building community spirit. Whatever your schedule or skills, there’s likely a volunteering role to suit you.We are always looking for more volunteers—join us and be part of something special.
Our Management Committee
A team of committee members are voted in to run the shop on behalf of the Community Benefit Society. Any member can put themselves forward to be elected to the committee.
John Smart (Jack)
Alison Crowter
Lisa Newey
John Charnley
Inka Gabriel
Callie Smart
Clare Golding
James Newey
Tom Leeman
James Crowter
Chair
Treasurer
Secretary
Vice – Chair
Store Manager
Volunteer Oversight
Committee Member
Committee Member
Committee Member
Committee Member
Jack Smart, Chair