The owner of the only shop in a village has reassured residents it will not remain closed for long after the current tenants leave this week.

Linda Johnson, who is the landlady for Mersham Stores and Post Office, near Ashford, says she is already in negotiations with new occupiers, who are expected to move in before the end of the year.

Earlier this week, Phillip and Lucy Payne, who ran the business for the past eight and a half years, announced they would be leaving on Sunday, November 24.

Mr Payne stated how they are both “incredibly sad” to say goodbye to Mersham as they have become a big part of the community.

But Ms Johnson has now told KentOnline that she expects the new tenants to take the reins on Christmas Eve, when the current lease officially expires.

“It’s a meeting place for so many in the community. There are a lot of elderly people here, and they need a shop and post office,” said the 78-year-old.

“It will be closed for a month until I have legal access, and then the new tenant can start doing the work.

“I need to stress that the shop will not be closed for too long!”

Ms Johnson, who has owned the building for the past 10 years, says that some refurbishments will be made to the store which could take a few weeks.

She hopes the village shop will be able to fully reopen in the new year.

The Paynes have received a number of well-wishes from villagers since announcing their departure.

One resident said: “A sad day for the village. Thanks for your hard work and dedication.

“We were all sad to see you leave and wish you both good luck in the future.”

The pair have already found a home in Yorkshire and are “looking forward to a new challenge”.

Mr Payne added: “We are opening a small village shop in the Yorkshire Dales and hope to replicate what we built here in Kent.

“I want to thank all of our amazing customers. We are really going to miss them.

“It’s been a privilege to be a part of this community.”