ONE of Christchurch’s most-loved shops is to expand its empire into the premises of an empty discount store in the High Street.

Bookends, which moved into its larger High Street premises from Church Street around 15 years ago, has taken over the lease of the vacant Superbuys store, which closed earlier this year.

Owners Simon and Debbie Pritchard plan to move the gallery, which is situated on the first floor of the town centre bookstore, into the new premises.

Simon said: “We’ve run out of room here so it makes sense to really show off our wonderful pieces of art properly.

“They are kind of hidden upstairs so it will be brilliant to have a completely separate premises for them.”

The couple took over the business four years ago.

“All things considering we haven’t done too badly,” he added.

“Christchurch as a whole still has a lively High Street. Whereas many have sunk, Christchurch is a little bit special.”