Devon couple secure Lifton’s Post Office and Store

The future of a Devon village’s local store and Post Office has been secured with the help of a loan from Lloyds TSB Commercial.

Paul Widdows and business partner Michelle Abel bought Lifton Stores and Post Office, which includes a general store, newsagent, off licence and post office, from the previous owner who was looking to retire.

The purchase also secures the future of the village’s Post Office, as Michelle has recently been appointed post mistress and is currently undertaking her training for the role with Royal Mail.

The business is the only convenience store in the village of Lifton, Devon, and has been trading since the 1920s. Paul and Michelle intend to run the business themselves and are looking at expanding the range of products and services available in the coming year.

Paul said: “We had wanted to buy a business in the local area but were concerned about whether the financing would be available in the current climate.

“We met our bank’s Relationship Manager, who presented us with a number of options and found the best way to do it – especially in the timeframe that we’re looking to run the business for.

“We found the bank easy to approach and do business with, and the service from the Relationship Manager made the whole process smooth and painless.

“Looking to the year ahead, we’re aiming to bring in new lines and a fresh outlook to the business, whilst maintaining its independence and charm, as well as to grow its reputation and footfall.”

The bank’s Relationship Manager, commented: “The Post Office and store comprise an essential service to the local community in Lifton, and it’s great to see its future secured at a time when such facilities are increasingly disappearing from local villages.

“We worked closely with Paul and Michelle to help them structure a proposal and to provide a funding solution that best suited their needs. I’d like to wish them all the best in their exciting venture.”