FOR the second year running a popular Southampton bookshop has been named as a finalist for a prestigious regional award.

The British Book Awards has announced its Regional and Country Finalists for the 2022 Independent Bookshop of the Year Award.

Southampton's October Books in Portswood Road has been nominated for a second time in a row.

Describing itself as 'more than a bookshop' and being 'local, radical and ethical', October Books has been trading since 1977.

It is a much-loved business - with people in the community raising £300,000 to save it from closure.

Jonathon Moorland, 28, is the bookshop co-ordinator.

Jonathon said: “It feels amazing, we were listed on the Guardian’s Top 10 Independent Bookshops.

"That and being a finalist for this award is a real validation of the work of our team. Covid-19 was a struggle, among other things.

“The community has always rallied around us, the relationship is completely reciprocal and we really value it. 

“This nomination is a good example of what level we’re at, being nominated alongside other fantastic bookshops in the South East.

"It’s a great opportunity to network with other bookshops. The bookshop industry isn’t cutthroat, we support each other.

“The more connections we can make the better. We enjoy what we do and we want to get the word out that this business is viable and needed" Jonathan added.

“We run events three times a week, mostly for free. These events are a balance of online and in person.

"We just hosted an event for International Women’s Day. We have gallery exhibitions and a vegan café.

"We have lots of plans for the future and there’s always a chance to get involved.

“This is a real good time for the shop and it’s in a good place of growth.

"The team’s excited and think it’ll be a good year. Whether we win the award or not, we’ll still be doing what we do.”

The winners will be announced on May 23.