Christian bookshop fights for survival

A Christian bookshop in Keynsham is to close, while the future of a sister one in Bath is uncertain.

IBS-STL UK, one of largest Bible and Christian literature ministries in the world, has shut a tenth of its shops, blaming a downturn in trade.

The company owns the 40-strong Wesley Owen chain, which has a branch at St James's Parade.

It has already shut its branches in Keynsham and Trowbridge, and is considering the future of the Bath store.

Manager of the Bath branch the Rev Richard Greatrex said he was saddened at the closures, and is appealing for people to support the his shop and other threatened outlets in Bristol and Weston-super-Mare.

He said: "If Wesley Owen pulls out of Bath, Bristol and Weston-super-Mare the local picture becomes quite bleak.

"While internet retailers might fulfil basic needs, they are not able to provide bookstalls, give informed advice about which Bible translation might best suit, and sit down and pray with their customers.

"Christian bookshops have long been in a unique position both at the interface between the churches and the high street and as open, accessible places where people of every faith and none can meet and explore all aspects of the Gospel.

"We are therefore appealing to you to continue to support us during the coming weeks, your prayers are crucial to help sustain us locally."

The shop has charity Christmas cards and a wide range of books and gifts for sale.

There are two late night openings, tomorrow night and next Thursday, from 5.45pm to 7.45pm, when there will be a 10 per cent discount on items.