OUR STORY
A 1960s purpose-built premises with accommodation above, the shop has always been an integral part of the village. It was privately owned and run for many years, changing hands several times until 2006 when the owner retired and put the property on the market as a going concern.
Goal
2006
‘Secure the shop’s future and transform it into a community-owned asset’
A Community Triumph
2009
Parish Council owned and open for business
A CALL TO ACTION
After months on the market with minimal interest from potential buyers, the Parish Council grew increasingly concerned about the shop’s uncertain future and the loss of this vital community resource.
A Parish Council member took the initiative and formed a steering group, uniting community members with expertise in finance, corporate law, IT, business planning, and retail to secure the shop’s future.
Building a Community Vision
A newly established Industrial and Provident Society (IPS), designed for co-operatives and community-benefit organisations, was created to oversee the project
Following a public meeting that endorsed the plan, the community raised £20,294, with contributors gaining a voting share for as little as £5. Additional funding came through grants and loans, including support from West Dorset District Council (WDDC) and matched funding of up to £20,000 from the Plunkett Foundation.
With the necessary funding secured, the project moved forward.
Negotiating a Unique Solution
To address the financial challenges of purchasing the entire property, the steering group opted to acquire only the shop. This, along with a lease agreement between the Thorncombe Village Shop Association (TVSA) and the Parish Council ensured the project’s financial viability.
A Community Triumph
A parish-wide ballot of 88% voted in favour of the plan, ensuring the shop’s survival.
NEW BEGINNING
With funding secured, volunteers transformed the shop into the warm and welcoming space you see today. The wooden shelving, crafted by local volunteers, and the distinctive shop front—designed by a former John Lewis design director—add to its unique charm.
On 17th October 2009, Thorncombe Village Shop reopened as a community-run enterprise. Since then, it has proudly served residents and visitors year-round, becoming a much-loved hub of village life.
We invite you to be part of this ongoing story—whether as a customer, volunteer, or supporter, your contribution helps keep this community treasure thriving!
VISION & MISSION
The Thorncombe Village Shop Association (TVSA) operates as an Industrial and Provident Society. It does not return profits to shareholders or pay salaries and bonuses to directors. Instead, TVSA is run entirely by community volunteers, with benefit to shareholders of a thriving local shop.
All profits are reinvested into the shop to ensure its continued success. Rent to the Parish Council will not be due until May 2029, at which point a fair rental figure will be negotiated based on the shop’s financial position. This rent will provide additional funds for the Parish Council to invest back into the community, beyond the annual Precept.
Every purchase made at the shop directly contributes to Thorncombe Parish, creating a positive impact for residents and visitors alike. Shopping locally supports an enterprise that gives back to the community: win-win for everyone!
