A RETAIL presence has returned to Seavington after 12 years, thanks to sustained campaigning and fundraising.

Now, five years after the idea of a shop run by volunteers was mooted, 40 people are involved either behind the counter or behind the scenes. Open six days a week, the shop has quickly become a popular asset serving both Seavington St Mary and Seavington St Michael.

The large shop includes all the essentials and wherever possible sells locally produced goods. The café serves a range of hot and cold drinks and cooked breakfasts are a speciality. The building is even equipped with internet access so people can hook up to the web. It is the first time there has been a local shop in the village for 12 years.

Manda Jaggers, secretary of the Seavington Community Shop and Services Association, said the shop had proved to be a great addition to the village's amenities.

She said: "It was identified in 2005 that people in the village wanted a local shop and café. Through the research we found it would be sustainable. People would normally have to travel to Ilminster or South Petherton to go to shops, but now they are within walking distance to get a pint of milk or loaf of bread.

"I think it's a case of people wanting local stores and facilities using local produce. It's a fantastic facility and the community really are embracing it. But fundraising is continuing, to secure the long-term future of the shop and cafe."

The store, which is an eco-build, is located next to Millennium Hall on Water Street, near the recreation ground. Any profits made will be put back into the shop and community projects.

There are currently 38 volunteers working three and half hour shifts. The eldest volunteer is in their 70s and the youngest is 14. More volunteers are due to be trained up later in the year.

Teenagers are using the shop and café as a way to get work experience, while many of the adults are working shifts in their free time.

The café space of the building is available for hire and it is hoped that art may be exhibited. The shop is interested to hear from anyone with management experience and those interested in volunteering.

Anyone who would like to help can call the store on 01460 249730.