Keeble Antiques - relocation plans (updated)

Keeble has now opened a quality bookshop in Cheapside, Langport, Somerset

This business ceased trading in Sherborne in late November 2004 and relocated to historic Cheapside, Langport on the Somerset Levels.

For over18 months there had been an ongoing search to find premises suitable as a bookshop.In mid 2004 I saw the ideal property, it has plenty of character in a small Somerset market town which boasts a varied selection of independent retailers and welcoming catering establishments ; the town is very customer friendly, and has free off-road parking and marvellous local scenery.

Langport is steeped in history and was an important market town even in mediaeval times. The feeling of tranquility, and being at peace with the world, has seen designer craftsmen often settling in the area. Langport itself is home to "potters" John Leach at Muchelney Pottery, and to Paul Dennis whose gallery Level Life in Cheapside, Langport also regularly hosts exhibitions by himself and fellow artists : in Bow Street, Langport there is the Silver Workshop. Horticultarists worldwide know the name of Kelways Nursery which is based on the edge of Langport. What excellent neighbours : such opportunities. A fellow Cheapside Langport trader is Sue's Pantry - a delicatessen with strong local and regional following which stocks a wide selection of organic products.

Keeble Antiques will be stocking a far more extensive range of new "in print" titles : the "bin end" selection will be greatly extended and in-store range of secondhand books increased.

One of the more exciting aspects of the Langport shop will be the opportunity to offer and stock selected titles from such highly regarded independent publishers as Frances Lincoln and Profile Books Ltd. Local interests will be well covered by the titles from Dovecote Press and Countryside Books. The "new" book stock will be steadily increased to meet the needs of in-store shoppers : an extensive range of local interest books from Countryside Books and Dovecote Press will always be stocked, whilst the range from the excellent independent publishing house Frances Lincoln will be extensive.

The interior decor and presentation at Keeble Langport will hopefully produce a welcoming atmosphere where customers will find a bookstore with a relaxed, stress-free environment in keeping with the peace and tranquility of the Somerset Levels.

It is hoped that this shop will become a destination in its own right, proving that there is a future for the industrious independent bookseller. I hope to prove that, even in 2004, this trade can still be fun and trips to quirky, Grumpy booksellers rewarding.

On Tuesday morning of November 9th I collected the keys for the shop ; a good friend and myself worked away and stripped the window area and had by the end of the day managed to make a display which gave an indication of the stock which will be available. Opening date was Monday November 29th, the postal address:-

Keeble Antiques
Cheapside
Langport
Somerset TA10 9PW.

The very lengthy legal delays, meant that I obtained "possession" far later than originally envisaged :it would have been impossible for me to have put the premises in serviceable condition without the assistance of friends - thank you, especially to Erica Berry.

It has been very gratifying to receive such positive feedback from Langport shoppers ; both from the town and surrounding villages as well as visitors from further afield. Any commercial venture is a financial risk, but the manner in which this business has so quickly become a destination for booklovers indicates that I have probably achieved the correct eclectic, or rather serendipity, mix of both new and secondhand titles. The beautifully illustrated younger children's new books from Frances Lincoln have been much appreciated.

I look forward to the future, and the challenges that are likely in such a vibrant local economy Local business people have been very supportive and I have a very "warm" vision of the future : many thanks to everyone for their assistance during to the relocation.

Clive Keeble
Keeble Antiques

December 19th 2004 - Pacific Time