A COMMUNITY shop will play host to a VIP today, Friday March 8, when a local MP comes to check out the beverages and buns.

The Shop at Bromsberrow will see the Forest of Dean MP, Mark Harper, as he shakes the hands of volunteer staff and customers.

Shop spokesperson, Jan Long said: "Mark has been informed from the start about the progress of this community venture and he has encouraged those unpaid volunteers who organise, serve in and manage the shop.

"With the closure of the old shop and change of policy for the post office moving into the community shop, Mr Harper is keen to meet people who use the shop and post office and to chat with volunteers and customers in order to learn more about future plans and aspirations." Mrs Long added: “We are delighted that Mark Harper has taken time out of his busy constituency schedule to visit us He has demonstrated his support throughout, taking an interest in developments and coming to our rescue when we had banking difficulties.

"Mark recently expressed his delight in the knowledge that the shop is thriving and would like to know more about how we have managed with a team of unpaid volunteers”

Mr Harper will also visit Bromesberrow St Mary’s Primary School, to meet staff and pupils.