AROUND 40 people turned up on Monday to see the first spade going into the ground as work begins on the Burrow underground shop and café in Exbourne.

The 'blessing for the breaking of the ground' was carried out by the Reverend Ruth Hansford and Rev Philip Wagstaff, who blessed the ground and future of the shop and cafe. Rev Hansford and Rev Wagstaff then dug out the first pieces of turf along with chair of the Exbourne and Jacobstowe Community Association, Marie Winckler.

Marie was excited to see the beginning of the build: 'This is a very exciting moment, so significant for Exbourne. This is a new shop, and a new beginning for all of us here, who have helped get this project off the ground.'

Rev Wagstaff said: 'Today we look at something truly special. We are here in this community to share a sense of community, and a vision. A vision to bring this village a great community meeting point and much needed shop.

Keri Quertier, publicity officer for the project said: 'It's quite a moment. It's been a long time coming, and many of us thought it may never happen.

'A team of 50 volunteers or so have helped make this happen over the years, so today is a great day. For a village as small as Exbourne — it's a great occasion.'

Following nine years of fundraising for the project, the community association received a £90,000 grant from the Big Lottery Fund's 'Local Good' programme back in April for the Burrow project.

The funding received from this programme is in addition to grants from Devon County Council, the Greater Dartmoor LEAF project, the Trusthouse Foundation, the Tudor Trust and other foundations.

The association amassed almost £50,000 of the £320,000 necessary for the project themselves through various fundraising events, including quizzes, sales and community markets.

The shop will also provide villagers with post office services, a book exchange, internet access and a prescription collection point.

The café will use local seasonal produce where available to provide sandwiches, soups, and light snacks. Once open, it is hoped that a breakfast club for students at Okehampton College can also be established alongside evening activities.