INDEPENDENT bookshops are celebrating their loyal customers this week as part of national Independent Bookshop Week.

Angus Maclennan of Marlborough’s White Horse Bookshop said: “There is a fierce loyalty in our customers who want to support the bookshop and do not want to use chains or the internet. They are insistent on using us.

“When we redesigned the shop we wanted to make it big enough that it would be a destination for people out of town to come to.

“When you are honest with someone about a book choice that will pay itself forward and when people come to an independent book shop they expect to be persuaded to buy something that they weren’t expecting and it is a joy to be a part in that.”

The bookshop also has an exhibition space where author talks take place once a month and artists can exhibit their work.

Janet Brakspear, manager of The Corsham Bookshop on the High Street, said that the store integrates itself into the local community.

“I think it is interesting as at the moment the Booksellers Association is trying to get a deal with the government to get the same rate relief that pubs get, because they are seen as community hubs.

“I think bookshops often serve that function in a more cultural way.

“We do talks and events and we like to coordinate things with the local community. We do try and not just be out there on our own.”

Carol Rendall, assistant manager of Devizes Books on Sidmouth Street, said: “The best bit about my job is meeting the customers and being able to help them find a book. There is a lovely atmosphere in the shop. As well as selling books we sell a lot of tickets for events around Devizes so the shop is at the centre of the town. A lot of our customers are tourists who want walking or travel books but we also have regulars who say they prefer the feel and smell of a book in their hands.”