UK village’s only shop to permanently shut its doors in just HOURS as ‘devastated’ couple bid farewell

THE only shop in a small UK village is set to shut its doors for the last time today as its “devastated” owners bid farewell.

The pair were forced to close down their passion project due to an unfortunate legal issue.

Phillip and Lucy Payne have run their store and Post Office in Mersham, Kent, for more than eight years.

The outlet has become a “big part of the community” in the little village.

But they are unable to continue after not being allowed to renew their lease on the property.

Mr Payne told Kent Online that he and his wife are “incredibly sad” to be upping sticks.

He said: “It’s not something we wanted to do, but we haven’t been able to renew the lease.

“We have loved our time in the village and have had such a great relationship with our customers.

“I watched all these kids come in after school and now some of them are adults.

“It’s been a privilege to be a part of this community.”

Their sadness was shared by local residents, with one calling it a “sad day for the village.”

Another thanked the couple for their “hard work and dedication”.

The Paynes now plan to move to the Yorkshire Dales to open another shop in an attempt to “replicate” their beloved store.

The owner of the Mersham shop is reported to be looking for new owners to take on the tenancy.

However, Ashford Borough Council has taken the decision to list the property as an “asset of community value”, which gives it added protections from being taken over by private owners.

If an offer is put it, the current owner will have to notify the community and must pause the sale for six months if a local interest group or charity expresses interest in buying it.