A Southampton bookshop is appealing for support in the form of donations at a Valentine's poetry fundraiser.

October Books, Southampton's only community-owned bookshop, has asked people to support the business by donating £5 at the event on February 15.

This money will help to keep the bookshop open during "challenging times".

October Books is run by a team of dedicated staff and volunteers, who are all committed to promoting social change and community engagement.

The bookshop was saved in 2018 by the community, who formed a human chain to help it move to its current location in Portswood Road.

Liz Amos, author of 'All the Truths Between Us', will host the fundraiser along with long-serving staff member, Amelia.

Liz said: "A brilliant mix of poets have signed up—young people and adults, experienced performers, and those sharing for the first time.

"It’s a great reminder of what October Books aims to be: an inclusive space for our city, where all kinds of stories are welcome."

People can contact Liz at liz@liz-amos.com if they want to read their own poetry at the event.

More information on the event and tickets can be found at octoberbooks.lemonbooking.com/events/76/details.

The event will take place on February 15 from 2.30pm until 5pm at the bookshop in Portswood Road.

October Books also hosts a monthly open mic poetry night on the third Friday of every month.

October Books is the oldest community-owned, independent bookshop in Southampton.

It aims to champion diverse voices and foster connections through the written word.

A spokesperson for October Books said: "Amid the chaos of everyday life, creating and nurturing creative, safe spaces in our city has never been more essential."