A Haverhill couple who 'fell in love' with a Suffolk village Post Office and store have decided to take it over when the previous owners retired after 12 years at the helm.
Jane Bezant, 48, and Mike Bezant, 50, are the new owners of Rougham Post Office and Store on Kingshall Street.
Having lived in Haverhill since she was five, Mrs Bezant said she and her partner of 15 years wanted to do "something different" together.
"Mike was a postman and I worked in social care," she said.
"We looked at a couple of village stores and even at bed and breakfasts, but we just couldn't find the right place."
Rougham Post Office and Store became available after the previous owners, Annette and Colin, decided to retire after 12 years at the helm.
"Mike and I decided to take a look as a last minute thing and we just fell in love with it," added Mrs Bezant.
The couple moved in on Friday, April 7 and opened the store the very next day.
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"The people of Rougham have been so friendly and welcoming," Mrs Bezant said.
"They've been so supportive while we learn the ropes and get to grips with everything."
Mr and Mrs Bezant said they are keen to keep the post office and store as a community asset.
Much of their local produce comes from nearby bakers, butchers and farmers in the Bury St Edmunds area.
"We're trying to keep things as the community want them," added Mrs Bezant.
"We're also looking to get some tables and chairs to put outside during the summer so that people can meet here to chat and perhaps grab a coffee or piece of cake."
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