Pub owner Belinda Rudderham has applied to Mid Suffolk District Council for permission to operate the shop and post office in outbuildings, and expects a decision after September 22.

Mrs Rudderham said: “Pubs are struggling and we have to do something. We were opening the farm shop anyway and the village definitely needs a post office. There are no amenities in the village.”

The farm shop will source local vegetables, chutneys and cheeses, and the pub will breed its own pigs.

n The Dolphin pub in Wortham will offer visitors the opportunity to barter fresh fruit and vegetables in exchange for a drink when it opens on October 3, after refurbishments.

New landlords Liz Solly and Craig Barker will offer wine or beer in return for surplus fresh produce, and will place the items on the menu with due recognition.

The landlords have made the move in an effort to source local produce.

The pub will cater for allergies, offering gluten-free dishes and low-fat or dairy-free foods, alongside game, chicken, dairy and vegetable dishes.