Owners launch GoFundMe to save village shop |
Kayley Morgan and Jamie Borrett were "heartbroken" to announce the closure of Copperfields village store in Blundeston, near Lowestoft, last month.
It closed its doors on March 30, three years after the couple opened the site in The Street.
Kayley Morgan started the shop with her partner (Image: Mick Howes)
"I am absolutely heartbroken to have to do this, but unfortunately, with the current price increases, hurdles that have been thrown our way and the need for more footfall, we just can’t afford to continue," read the closure announcement, posted to social media.
The couple has now launched an appeal to save the shop on GoFundMe.
"We never imagined we would be in this position, but we are reaching out for support to help save our shop, something we have poured our hearts, time, and personal savings into," reads the fundraising page set up by Ms Morgan.
"We are not ready to give up on our loyal customers."
The current target is £4000, but the couple has suggested they would need to raise around £25,000 to secure a stable future for the shop.
"With a fresh plan, a clean slate, and the incredible community around us, who now understand the importance of support, we truly believe this shop can thrive again, " the appeal continues.
"We do not expect anything, and we know everyone is feeling the pinch, but we have been asked to try one more thing.
"It’s not just helping us, it’s helping everyone who relies on places like ours."
Taking to social media, the owners thanked everyone who had donated, with the total now at £3,397.
The store sold a range of items including fresh local produce, baked goods, bottled drinks and sweets.
It was launched in 2023 when the couple saw a gap in the market.