A tardis of a rural business with a big reputation has celebrated 40 years of trade in a Waverley village.

Balloons and cake were recently brought out in Rushmoor to mark four decades of AnA’s Pet ‘n’ Tack.

The business originally opened as Anna’s Country Store on March 8, 1985, under the ownership of Jacki and Manuel Santos Cobas.

It was given a refit and name change in February 2009 with Billy and Anna Maria Matlock now at the reins at the Tilford Road store.

The shop was definitely the mane attraction on the milestone day with customers being offered discounts, vouchers and prizes as part of its ruby anniversary celebrations.

There was also pizza on the house with Mr Matlock and the team of 14 keen to give something back to customers.

He said: “We really wanted to make today (Saturday, March 8) a big celebration so we’re giving money off, handing out vouchers and doing that sort of thing.

“As far as I know the nearest shop to us like this is near Guildford so a lot of customers come here and depend on us.”

Mr Matlock added: “There’s not many shops like this anywhere – it looks small from the outside but it keeps going on and on at the back, it’s a real tardis.”

Visitors can find everything from horse feed, tack and pet food to small birds and chickens at the store, along with feed, treats, bedding and accessories for an assortment of small animals.

And there’s also helpful and knowledgeable staff with regular meetings being held instore and online to keep everyone up to date with new products and developments.

“I think it’s down to a lot of hard work, having great loyal customers, and trying to be on top of everything,” said Mr Matlock in addressing the store’s longevity.