Popular Sidmouth shop owner Teresa Loynd has gone from selling the news to making it!

The 61-year-old has won a national award for her dedication to the community.

Teresa runs Woolbrook News in Woolbrook Road with her husband Ron, 65 and daughter Faye.

She was nominated for the ‘Newsangels’ award by customer Ann Liverton from Tyrrell Mead, Sidmouth, and was named the winner for the South West.

Teresa and Ron had to temporarily close their popular coffee shop and children’s play area during the government lockdowns. They used the space instead to stock extra essential supplies of groceries and bread for local residents. Meanwhile, Ron helped with home deliveries to ensure vulnerable customers and people who were unable to leave home for whatever reason, didn’t go without.

The couple also took it upon themselves to place topical, artistic, and entertaining displays in the window of the café which became a talking point in the local community.

Ann nominated the business for all the efforts the team made to help keep the local community’s spirits up and ensure people were safe.

Teresa, whose family took on Woolbrook News just four years ago, said: "It is a wonderful honour to think our customers feel we have been really helpful during the pandemic."

Dave Somerton-Rees, the Sidmouth Herald’s circulation manager, said: “It doesn’t surprise me that Teresa should win the competition.

“She is always available to help and is a pleasure to work with. She’s honest and helpful and nothing is too much trouble.

“Sidmouth is very lucky to have her living within the community."
Sidmouth Herald: The ball pool is a hit with youngstersThe ball pool is a hit with youngsters (Image: Dave Somerton-Rees)

Now that lockdown is lifting, the family and dedicated staff have reopened the coffee shop and play area, with restrictions of course.

If a mum, dad or grandparent visits the coffee shop, any under 5s can use the soft play area free of charge. The play area can also be hired for anything from one to eight hours at a time.

Woolbrook News also offers a full range of news and magazine titles, stamps, tobacco, confectionery, drinks and snacks, as well as an extensive selection of greetings cards, wrapping paper, balloons and celebration accessories.