Linghams Booksellers reaches final of The British Book Awards 2023

Linghams Booksellers in Heswall is owned by Sue Porter and her husband Mike King.

Speaking to the Globe, Sue said: "Me and Mike bought the shop in 2015. It has been part of the community for a long time but it was due to close as it was coming to the end of its lease.

"I've always had a huge passion for reading and I absolutely love books. I went on several courses and met lots of booksellers who have become very close friends.

"I started to sell books and concentrated on books and school events. I was very passionate about getting books into children's hands."

Sue has hosted many book signing events and brings many well-known faces to the Wirral.

Previous events have seen Ruth Jones, Davina McCall, Dan Walker, Ricky Ross and Nisha Katona be questioned by the bookshop owner on their latest releases in Wirral.

Sue with Ruth Jones (Image: Chloe Nightingale)

Sue found out today (February 17) that Linghams had become a North England regional finalist for The British Book Awards 2023 in the Independent Bookshop of the Year category.

READ > Council receive more than £3000 in 2022 from parking fines in Neston

She added: "It's fabulous to have got to this stage, I am really pleased.

"It's been a crazy day to be honest. It's very exciting and I will be raising a glass tonight to celebrate."

Linghams will compete to win their region, with the winner announced on Thursday, March 16.

The overall national winner will be then announced at an awards ceremony on Monday, May 15 in London.

'I want to thank everyone'

Speaking about her customers, Sue wanted to thank them for continuing to support her and Linghams.

"The high street is a very difficult place at the moment, people are struggling. I want to thank everyone for continuing to support us. The shop is community-led.

"Please carry on supporting us and continue shopping local. There are people still discovering us which is great."