A shop which gives its stock away is losing its premises.

Since opening in Romsey’s Abbey Walk in April, The Books for Free shop has proved very popular and has given away 11,000 books.

The shop, which comes under the umbrella of the charity Healthy Planet, was allowed to use the premises rent-free on condition it would quit within a month if the shop was leased.

Lead volunteer Cara Sandys said: “The shop is due to close this weekend as the lease has been taken out by a new business opening on December 1. Unfortunately we were only given 10 days’ notice so it leaves little time to find another home.”

Cara said the shop has somewhere to store its stock but would like to hear from anyone with a vacant shop premises which they could use.

She said: “It would be shame if the shop did not continue. It means so much to people. I have one little old lady who comes in regularly and fills up her shopping trolley with books which she distributes to her all friends. When they have finished with them they pass them on to the hospital.

“I’ve also had parents who have told me their children have read so much more since coming and choosing books here.”

She said that many of the books go round and round several times but that was the best form of recycling Despite its name, many customers make donations when they take a book and so far the store has passed on £400 to good causes including Romsey’s Appletree Centre and the Andover Foodbank.

If you can help contact Cara Sandys on 07743 695 485