Prime Minister recognises ‘selfless’ Kirdford volunteer

Sue Ransley, chair of the community shop in Russett Place, has received a ‘Point of Light Award’ from PM David Cameron which recognises people who are making a change in their community and inspiring others.

Sue helped to raise almost £250,000 through grants and fundraising and with the support of the local community managed to get enough funding to open Kirdford Village Stores in 2010.

Since then it has become one of the UK’s most successful community shops and in 2011 was named the Best Corner/Village Shop in Britain by The Telegraph magazine.

Mr Cameron said: “I applaud the work that Sue has done to help rekindle and grow community spirit in her area as the driving force behind Kirdford Village Stores.

“Sue is bringing people together and ensuring a vital service in the village. I’m delighted to recognise Sue by making her a Point of Light.”

Before it was created in 2010 the village had not had a shop for more than three years and it was Sue who realised that there was a potential to create a new store that could become the centre of the community.

Sue said: “I am incredibly proud of what we, as a community, have achieved together, and of the shop itself.

“It’s been an amazing journey, and I’m honoured to receive this award on behalf of the community.”

Nick Herbert, MP for Arundel and South Downs, added: “She is the epitome of selfless volunteering that has made a real difference to her community, and she richly deserves this award.”