A FRESH fruit and vegetable delivery service launched in an Evesham village has proved so successful it has spread across Worcestershire's border.

Volunteers in Cleeve Prior have seen business boom since they set up the pilot Vital Villages scheme.

Now, Birdingbury, Bubbenhall and Preston-on-Stour in Warwickshire have joined the project.

And there is now hope for more villages to take up the challenge across Worcestershire.

"We're delighted that this idea is being taken up with such enthusiasm," said Sharon Ham, project co-ordinator.

"Village based shopping helps keep a community together by creating a focal point where people can meet.

"It also makes environmental sense by cutting down on car journeys".

Order are emailed to the supplier where they are carefully selected, packed and delivered to the shop ready to be picked up a couple of days later.

Villages Direct, brainchild of the Warwickshire and Worcestershire Rural Partnership, is now recruiting further communities to the scheme.

"It doesn't have to be set up in a shop," Ms Ham added.

"All you need is a suitable space, access for deliveries and at least one day a week to spare.

"Villages Direct provides training and help with marketing as well as equipment on loan.

"The scheme can be run by volunteers or individuals to provide a small income."

Villages Direct has been set up by Vital Villages, a Government-funded project through Advantage West Midlands to give rural communities better access to key services and facilities.

Anyone interested in starting their own collection point should contact Sharon Ham on 01684 573334.