A COMMUNITY shop in Bromsberrow has become a cornerstone of community life thanks to vital support from the Forest of Dean District Council.

The Shop at Bromsberrow, which sits along the popular Newent Cycling Loop, recently received a Warm Spaces Grant and a Community Grant from the council.

The funding has helped transform the venue into a welcoming, multi-purpose space that now plays a key role in reducing rural isolation and boosting social connection in the area.

Council representatives paid a visit to the shop this week to see firsthand the impact the investment has made and were struck by the warmth, vibrancy and sense of purpose now radiating from the venue.

The once-simple retail space has undergone decorative improvements, including the introduction of dementia-friendly features aimed at ensuring the environment is accessible and comfortable for all visitors.

These changes are part of a wider community-led effort to create a space where everyone feels at home.

The funding has also enabled the shop to expand its programme of events. Regular lunch clubs have become a lifeline for older residents, offering a chance to enjoy a hot meal and company in a friendly setting.

Weekly activities such as bingo and quiz nights now fill the shop with laughter and conversation, fostering a renewed sense of community spirit.

Volunteers have played a central role in the transformation. Their passion and commitment were praised by the Forest of Dean District Council, who described the project as a shining example of grassroots community action making a real difference.

Shoppers can pick up fresh fruit and vegetables donated by neighbours, alongside drinks from local producers including Three Choirs Vineyard and Foxbury Fields Vineyard.

Open seven days a week, the shop has become a regular stop for walkers, cyclists and visitors to the area, as well as a vital resource for the local community.