Battle MP, Huw Merriman, will be supporting a new business on the town’s high street which officially opens its doors this Saturday.

‘Rother Books’ has been set up by Ian Cawley who has had nearly 25 years bookselling experience in numerous roles at Waterstones and Ottakar’s.

Ian says: ‘I have always loved Battle and it has been a long held dream to open a bookshop in the town. When the site of the former Saffron Art Gallery became available it seemed to me to be a great opportunity to bring books back to the town after Battle Books sadly closed.

Whilst the shop is small, the building itself is bursting with character and although the range of books isn’t huge it is interesting and thousands of books are available to order for next day delivery. I love books and reading and am delighted to be able to share my passion with as many people as possible and add my shop to what is already an exciting and vibrant high street in the town.’

Huw said “I am delighted that Ian Cawley has decided to open a new book shop in Battle which I am very keen to support. At a time when East Sussex County Council is consulting on the future of their library services in the constituency, it is even more encouraging to be opening a shop where constituents can access books. Battle’s High Street is looking great; it is full of small independent businesses which makes it a unique and interesting place to shop. Ian’s book shop is a great addition to the High Street. The stock is really imaginative and the ambience and friendly greeting will appeal to residents of all generations.”