A VILLAGE store reopened its doors this week after a new mum spotted it was on the market and decided to take on the challenge.

Pauline Ford, who worked in investment banking for 20 years, saw that the shop in East Saltoun was available, along with the adjoining two-bedroom house.

And she persuaded husband Gary, who is a flooring specialist, it was an ideal opportunity to move their young family into the village.

The move has been welcomed by villagers who had been left without a shop since the village store closed in April.

East Lothian Provost John McMillan, local ward councillor, said that people were delighted to see the village shop return.

He said: “It’s always pleasing to see a new venture launched. I wish the team behind The Bothy every success and hope people – local residents and visitors alike – will find it to be a great asset.”

Pauline, who grew up in Longniddry, is mum to nine-year-old Lloyd and seven-month-old Archie.

She said: “We are really excited about taking over the shop and moving into the village. East Saltoun is such a wonderful place to live and we have been welcomed by everyone in the community.

“Lloyd is already enjoying his new school.”

The family were living at Kidlaw, near Gifford, when Pauline spotted the opportunity for a move. They have transformed the former Village Store into The Bothy, which opened its doors on Saturday at 7am.

Pauline, 40, said: “I’ve been working with local suppliers and hope to use as many producers as we can. It is early days and we will learn as we go what our customers needs are and build our stock around the demand.”

It promises to be a busy time for Pauline who plans to runs the store – which will open from 7am to 6pm daily – on her own initially.

She said: “I will have help from my mother and mother-in-law to look after Archie when needed and in The Bothy when I need to tend to him, and may look at additional help as it grows, but it will be a great change from travelling into Edinburgh for work. I’ll be there when Lloyd comes home from school every day.”

The reopening of the only shop in the village was greeted with delight by local residents on social media.

Chris Wilson said: “Just what the village has needed for ages. Good luck.”

And Kelly Kenny said: “Finally a village shop! A huge welcome and good luck. We look forward to popping in often.”