After nearly three decades of being owned and run by a family from the rural Rutland village, Cottesmore Post Office is changing hands.

The Post Office and village store in Cottesmore has been run by Amanda and Graham and their family for 29 years, and the duo are getting ready to hang up their uniform and hand over the baton to a couple both in life and business: Raj and Debbie.

Raj and Debbie are new to the village just north of Rutland Water, and the former owners of the store have welcomed them with one arms, encouraging village residents to do the same.

Debbie and Graham said: "Well, after nearly 29 years of our family working in and running Cottesmore Post Office and Store, we have decided to pass the baton on to a lovely couple Raj and Debbie, that I'm sure you will welcome into the village.

"We would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to all that have supported us over this time, and a special thank you to our great staff, past and present, that helped make it all possible.

"We're pleased that Raj is keeping the current staff, and would hope everyone will be patient whilst they become accustomed to their new business.

"I hope you will join us in wishing them the very best of luck for the future."

While Graham and Amanda will be enjoying a rest after a busy career serving the local community, Cottesmore residents have been keen to welcome Raj and Debbie to the shop.

One resident commented: "Thank you Amanda, all the best to you and your family and for the future. So glad that the new owners are keeping the staff, it wouldn't be the same without them either."

Another added: "Good luck Amanda and welcome Raj and Debbie. Looking forward meeting you both."

Find Cottesmore Post Office and Store at:

39 Main Street

Cottesmore

Rutland

LE15 7DJ