A book shop owner has opened his home to book lovers after having to close his premises in Saltaire.

David Ford, owner of Saltaire Bookshop, has moved his business into his home to concentrate on internet sales.

He has now opened his home in Myrtle Place, Saltaire, to customers for the first time in a bid to retain the traditional shopping experience, to run alongside his online model.

The business, which will be open to customers on Fridays and Saturdays, will retain traditional features of the shop including guest readings and events.

Mr Ford said: “The shop had been hobbling along but the lease was up so we handed in the keys.

“I think a lot of businesses have to look at ways of cutting overheads. High street shops are just not getting the footfall they would have done at one time so people are doing things like running it from home or going on to the internet.”

Mr Ford said he did not want his business to sell on the internet only.

Evening events, including visits from writers, will continue and reading groups will also carry on.

The first of these events will be held from 6.30pm on Thursday when poet Natalie Rees visits the store.