The owners of a village shop have said farewell to their customers after closing due to the rising costs of living and a “massive hike” in electricity that has made the business “impossible” to run.

Sue Mantle, who ran Mantle’s Village Shop with her husband Steve, said there were “lots of tears and sadness” when the Trefeglwys store closed on Thursday, February 29.

Only days earlier, the couple received a Highly Commended gong in the best village shop in Wales category after reaching the Countryside Alliance Awards, also known as the ‘Rural Oscars’, in Cardiff.

“We did receive an award in Cardiff on Tuesday night 'Highly Commended' which after only two years trading is absolutely wonderful,” Sue said.

“We couldn't be more proud of what we have achieved in the short time we have been open and the difference the shop made to the village.

“We would like to thank each and every customer for their support and kind wishes we have received since announcing the closure.”

Sue and Steve shared the news on January 21 that the shop would close which was followed by an outpouring of gratitude and support from the community.

County Times: Sue and Steve Mantle serving local customers at the new village shop in Trefeglwys. at Mantle's Village Shop, Trefeglwys. Picture by Emma Sheriff.

County Times: Sue and Steve Mantle, owners of Mantle's Village Shop, Trefeglwys. Picture by Emma Sheriff.

The couple said at the time: “It is with great sadness that we have been forced to evaluate the viability of running the shop.

“Due to the high cost of living and the massive hike in electricity it has made it impossible to continue and as a result will be closing at the end of February.

“We have loved watching the shop grow into a little hub for the community and will miss you all very much especially Pensioners Corner. We will cherish the memories you have made here with us, so we thank you.”

The Trefeglwys community flooded their social media page with kind messages congratulating them on their “richly deserved” commendation. One supporter said was an “accolade to remind you of special and happy days serving our community”.

One resident said she was thinking of Sue, Steve and the Mantle’s Village Shop team “with a heavy heart” on the final day being open.

Another said the pair “couldn’t have tried harder”, adding that they created a “fantastic shop which Trefeglwys will be at a great loss”.

While another said they were going to miss the shop “so much”, adding that “life won't be the same without the oldies' coffee corner”.