The former Flimby Papershop will reopen this weekend as The Village Store.

The shop, on the A596 opposite the railway station, has been closed since October last year.

It will open tomorrow under new owner David Ancell and manager Michelle Crellin. The pair say the shop is independent but with the chain Nisa as its main support.

Dave said as well as a line of groceries, The Village Store will sell locally sourced produce and meat and a range of chilled products.

The old shop was well-known for its pies.

“We will not be baking pies on the premises but we will sell pies, chips, sandwiches and salad bowls. We will also have a coffee machine and slushy drinks for the children,” said Dave.

Michelle is from Maryport and worked at Netherton Mini Mart for several years.

Dave is from Gosforth where he also owns a village shop.

They will employ up to eight people initially, all from Flimby. Dave said: “We will add to the staff if and when we need it.”

The couple will also continue selling the Times & Star and will open early for those who want to pick up the paper, coffee or other items first thing in the morning.