CAERWENT Post Office celebrated its first birthday under new management last Thursday (3rd April).

Customers and villagers popped into the post office to thank manager Sarah Woodfield and her husband Simon for a year's service to the community where they were treated to Pimm's and homemade cakes.

The Woodfields have proved that a lot can change in a year with the adaptation of the post office meaning it is now able to stock plenty of household products and sell basic ingredients like bread and milk.

Present at the party was Reverend John Waters of the Diocese of Monmouth. He said: "Lots of people now see the post office as a central point in the village. It has changed unrecognisably over the last year."

Caroline Brewin, a customer at the shop, said: "It has been a complete turnaround. Sarah has offered us so many things. It's such a good asset to have in the village."

Mum-of-four Sarah said: "I started developing the post office by introducing bread and milk and now this has evolved into stocking basic store ingredients.

"I've lived in the village for eight years so I have a good feel for what people want.

"The shop is only 12 feet square so I'm making the most of the space.

"My highlight of the year has been how the shop has brought the community together. I've really had fantastic feedback.

"The amount of people that came to celebrate with us today has been brilliant. There have been loads of people and I feel very well supported."

Mrs Woodfield said she hopes in the future to introduce fresh sandwiches and pies to sell to passing trade.