A village store in Codicote, Hertfordshire, has celebrated its 175th birthday in style following a complete refurbishment.

The store, which switched from Mace to Costcutter as part of the refurbishment, reopened with a community fun day, just in time to mark the significant anniversary.

Local customers were invited to a day of fun which included fizz, cakes and a candy floss machine, with all profits going to Macmillan Cancer Support.

Fifth generation store owner Josie Chamberlin said: “This has been a major investment for us and has allowed us to offer so much more to the local community including hot food to go, a gluten free range and fresh fish, something that the village has been missing for some time.

“I’m confident that we can now offer customers full meal options as well as everyday convenience items.”

The 1,600 sq ft store also offers an expanded convenience range, including a greater selection of fresh fruit and vegetables, an in-store bakery, plus a delicatessen counter serving cheese and meats.

Josie has also extended the alcohol selection with wines from around the world, traditional ales, beers and lagers and is looking to organise regular wine tasting events, wine quizzes and even start a wine club.

The store also has a Post Office with two new counters with increased opening hours.

The refit took four weeks. The store remained open with a limited offering during the refurbishment to ensure locals could still shop.