Community Shop Discussions Having had discussions with our marketing Agent and on double checking our contract we are UNABLE have any discussions with you formally or informally until the shop has CLOSED on 31st July 2026. Such discussions would constitute a material impact on the saleability of the business and as such represent a conflict of interest as well as direct breach of contract. Furthermore, as these discussions in the community have started whilst the Marketing Agreement is in full effect we will be unable to sell or donate any Stock/Assets (shelves/ fridges/freezers etc) to any new Stoke Climsland Parish community shop after the shop has closed without a significant marketing fee to be paid to the Agents as these are in effect a proportion of the business and as such have value and attract a fee. Post Office Counter provision. This should be seen as it actually is, a completely separate entity and service provision. Once again, we are unable to enter into any discussions on this until we are out of contract at 31st July 2026, for the same reasons as above. If the community feels a Post Office Provision is required they should contact PO Ltd about this directly , who may then choose to hold discussions. As the retiring Post Master I have no influence or say in this, but we can of course support you with facts as appropriate , subject to confidentiality and GDPR. As stated in our original announcement, the Business is still being actively marketed by our agents and the ongoing message to all should be that we are operating as 'Business as Usual' until 31st July 2026 and as such continue to require your valued custom. Finally, can I remind everyone that this is first and foremost a human issue, and ask everyone to bear in mind and respect our team, personal and family sensitivities in any and all interactions.