DURING the past 12 months our two local village stores-cum-post offices have closed down leaving no similar amenity within convenient walking distance. Each in its own way formed the hub of village life. It was sad to once again see a little shop with she

DURING the past 12 months our two local village stores-cum-post offices have closed down leaving no similar amenity within convenient walking distance. Each in its own way formed the hub of village life. It was sad to once again see a little shop with shelves almost empty and a shop window full of goodwill message cards as was seen at Harlton last week. "We shall just slowly eat our way through what is left over," said Vic as with a broad smile he dodged in front of the packets of chocolate digestives already tucked away behind the inner post office door. "No doubt people will knock on the door asking if we still have the odd item around," said postmistress Pat, now looking forward to being able to relax and take a holiday. The parish council instigated the farewell party held in the village hall. Vic was not fooled by the invitation ostensibly to join his fellow village hall committee members for a get together. But Pat, we believe, was taken by surprise on arriving to hear Leon Lovatt on the piano playing For He's a Jolly Good Fellow with a room full of people joining in. Allan Banks gave a speech of appreciation, a cheque and gifts were presented, and so the passing of an era ended with a successful evening. JILL MARSHALL