AN ISLE of Wight farm shop, which announced it was at risk of closure, has closed until Friday (August 5) as builders tackle the remedial works that need to be complete.

Fanny’s Farm Shop opened on July 1 in Norton Green, Freshwater offering produce sourced from various Island-based suppliers.

Last Monday (July 25), its owners launched an appeal after announcing the farm shop's future was threatened due to significant building work required to meet regulations.

Owners Nicola Briggs and Kay Scott launched a CrowdFunder, aiming to raise £19,000 for the works.

​Isle of Wight County Press: Photo courtesy of Rosemary Smith from Isle of Wight County Press Camera Club.Photo courtesy of Rosemary Smith from Isle of Wight County Press Camera Club.

Since posting their appeal, the owners have received offers from Island tradespeople.

Posting on Facebook, they said: “We have had some exceptionally kind offers from tradesmen to come and help us get the building finished so we can continue to bring you fresh Island produce and products.

“This is a real community effort, and we hope you understand why we have to close for a few days to get this sorted.”

Previously, Nicola said if Fanny's survived this setback, it planned to increase the number of Island businesses it can stock and expand the soft fruit it can grow on-site.

In addition, she also said Fanny’s would like to have a care farm, offering vulnerable adults the chance to engage in horticulture, animal keeping and gardening to improve their mental wellbeing.

Fanny’s Farm Shop in Norton Green is closed today (Monday, August 1) and is due to reopen on Friday (August 5).

The work that needs carrying out is:

  • Improvement works on accessibility for wheelchair users.
  • Interior fireproofing works.
  • Installation of toilet facilities.
  • Establishing a power connection, either through solar panels or the grid.