TWO much-loved shop owners are retiring after 17 years serving the Dingestow community.

Myra Bowen and husband Haydn Bowen of Dingestow Stores, are leaving the shop behind to spend more time with their six grandchildren.

Myra and Haydn built the shop up into the 'hub' it is today and have enjoyed being an active part of the community.

With a love of people, Myra feels she has become a 'counsellor' to Dingestow villagers.

She said: "I've had an interesting time working at Dingestow Stores and love all the different people you meet. I feel like a counsellor sometimes.

"I've become a bit more than a shopkeeper, I've become a listener.

"In the village we have a nice cross section of people. Meeting residents is my favourite part of the job."

Prior to working at the store, Myra and Haydn focused on local farming but after their children left home they felt they needed to do something different.

Before Dingestow Stores was taken over by the Bowens it was in need of improvement, over the 17 years it has become a base for the community. The shop also scooped an award from the Countryside Alliance for the best village shop and post office.

Myra, who works seven days a week, said: "Rural shops are important because they keep communities together. I like people to come in and feel there's a warm atmosphere.

"I am definitely going to miss all the people who I've met over the years," concluded Myra.