MARNHULL post office has been nominated for a prestigious award after a year when other branches were being closed to cut costs.

The store has made the regional shortlist in the Countryside Alliance's best village shop and post office award, thanks to its contribution to village life.

Bob and Suzanne Young have been running the Robin Hill Stores and Post Office since moving down from London two years ago.

The nomination recognises their hard work and dedication, as well as their efforts to promote local produce.

Mr Young said: "We're very pleased to get shortlisted; it's just a nice feeling."

The shop has also gained accreditation from Direct From Dorset after meeting strict criteria laid down by Dorset County Council relating to the supply of local produce.

The shop sells Sherborne Castle wine, Somerset and Dorset meats and cheeses from a delicatessen counter and fudge, among many other local products.

Mr Young, aged 46, said: "When we started the shop, there was hardly anything that was local being sold.

"It's great that we've got accreditation and we plan to keep on selling local goods."

The couple has been shortlisted as one of three Wessex regional finalists and will find out if they have progressed to the next round at the end of the month.

Mrs Young, aged 38, said: "If we win, the award will be presented in a ceremony at the House of Lords."

For now, the pair are busy with the day-to-day running of the shop and post office, ably assisted by two volunteers, their mothers Rose-Marie Chalk and Linda Young.