We're a family of shop keepers

Daphne, 77, is third generation to run village store in 135 years

- ADAM ASPINALL

A VILLAGE shop has been run by the same family since 1890, surviving 135 years of high street turmoil.

Daphne Creed, 77, is the third generation to manage Springfield Stores, taking over from her mother Phyllis in 1991.

Phyllis had run the shop in Hardington Mandeville, Somerset, for 55 years after taking over from her mum Susan, who first took the reins some 45 years earlier.

Daphne said: "The best part is meeting my customers and all my friends every day.

"When customers come in, I support them. It gets me up in the morning. I don't have to travel to work and I've got my family close by.