IT WAS a mixed blessing for Poulton residents this month after they saw their village shop saved and post office close in the same week.

In a romantic gesture, newlywed Cotswold District councillor David Fowles bought the Poulton village shop for wife Deborah.

They officially took over the shop this month and gave it a new lease of life by renaming it Poulton Provisions.

However, Cllr Fowles said that despite extensive discussions with the Post Office, which operates independently from the shop, he was unable to keep that facility open.

"I understand how important the post office is to the village but it was out of my hands," he said.

"But the village still has its shop which is an important part of the community.

"We offer everything the village shop had before but even more, with an enhanced delivery service and extended opening hours."

He said his priority remained as a district councillor but that he was determined to help make a success of the new venture.