A VILLAGE has overwhelmingly backed a scheme to save its village shop and post office.

More than 93 per cent of residents in the 700-strong community of Bishop Monkton, near Ripon, have given their backing to a scheme which would save the shop.

A public meeting has now seen volunteers come forward to set up a steering group.

This could lead to the village leasing the premises from owners Bernard and Mary Knowles. The couple have turned down a £300,000 offer from developers to build houses on the site because they want it to remain open when they retire.

The meeting heard from Claire Binns, of the Village Retail Services Association, about grants and help which could kick-start the project.

The Knowles plan to live next door to their present home above the shop.