July 18th 2012 was a very special day in the village of Ilsington. After nearly four long years of planning, fundraising and organising, Ilsington Village Shop finally opened its doors to the public for the very first time. It was a very proud and emotional day for everyone and the opening speeches reflected that. Tony Beard, BBC Radio Devon presenter and local celebrity cut the ribbon for us "disguised" as his alter ego, the Widecombe Wag. The children from Ilsington Primary School sang a beautiful song and refreshments were served in the hall as well as food tasting in the shop. The time capsule that was found during the building of the shop was displayed so that everyone could read the newspaper cuttings and look up the signatures of Ilsington Villagers – some sadly no longer with us – who supported the building of the Village Hall 50 years ago. The whole community turned out to celebrate the opening of THEIR shop and not even the rain could dampen their spirits:

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