IT boasts a traditional village store, post office, butcher’s shop, delicatessen and cafe.

And now Orford General Store has been crowned Village Shop and Post Office of the Year for the Eastern Region by the Countryside Alliance.

Judges said the shop was an “absolute gem” and praised the “thriving business” for providing a real alternative to supermarket shopping and supporting the local community.

Store owner Penny Teale, who took over the business in 2010, said they were delighted. She also praised her team – all of whom live locally – for providing a personal service to customers.

“Running a vibrant village shop is hard work and to become successful we took a look at the ranges we sold to make sure we provide all the products that our locals would expect in a small supermarket,” she said. “We then overlay this core with a special range of locally-sourced and speciality items.

“We aim to source as much as possible from local producers, so we know where the products are grown or made, as well as supporting the local rural economy.

“We must ensure we remain competitive against the supermarkets, so we regularly conduct price checks. Offering good value is important.”

The store is now in the national final on March 13 at the House of Lords.