The owners of the Post Office in Enham Alamein are celebrating their 20th anniversary of running the store, claiming the last two decades have flown by.

Leslie Francis, 65, who was awarded an MBE in 2023 for her ‘contribution and difference made to the community of Enham Alamein’ said she couldn’t believe how quickly time had gone: “It’s crazy to think we’ve been here 20 years, but the reason we’re here isn’t just the long hours and dedication, we’re committed to the community and we’ve had the privilege to meet so many people.”

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Leslie runs the shop and post office with her husband, Tim, 63 and live in the bungalow next door which used to be the village shop over a hundred years ago.

She said the village had undergone many changes since they’d moved in: “Over the years we’ve got to know three generations of the same family. They become our friends, rather than customers.”

The couple is planning a celebration on Monday, November 25, but they’ll also be marking the event with a family event on Saturday.

Leslie explained: “Monday is our busiest day in the post office and we’ll be giving red and white cupcakes to customers, but at the week-end we’re going to have an inflatable globe full of balloons on the Green, for children to run around and collect and some free give-aways for everyone.”

Leslie is a firm believer in community events and supports local producers.

She said: “Sadly the shop had been neglected when we took it over, but with a great team of people we’ve transformed it.

"We have passion for this, it’s much more than serving customers. My husband and I are both born and bred Hampshire, we’re proud of that and we’re proud to be involved with so many great causes and charities.”

The children’s activity on Saturday, November 23 will run between 1pm -3.30pm. Cakes will be served on Monday, November 25 between store opening hours.