A NEW owner has given a beloved book shop near Taunton a fresh new look and identity.

Chocolate Books, formerly the Old Carousel Pig, recently opened in Wiveliscombe, after the Old Carousel Pig's original owner, Alison, retired. 

The new owner and local author, Ally Kennen, got the keys to the Old Carousel Pig premises in January and has spent the time since renovating the property and changing the internal layout into a "more workable space."

The new-look bookshop is open now in Wiveliscombe. (Image: Chocolate Books) Explaining her decision to open a bookshop, Ally said “I have always been an avid reader and really loved the Carousel Pig so I was thrilled to get the opportunity to buy the shop on Alison’s retirement.

"I am hoping that Chocolate Books will be a place where people come to have a browse and a moment of calm and to take time in choosing a book.

"There is a big children’s section at the back plus plenty of young adult and adult fiction and non-fiction.”

Ally is best known for her young adult novel, “Beast” which was shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal and she has since gone on to write another 10 more.

The Carnegie Medal for Writing, established in 1936, is a British literary award that annually recognises one outstanding new English-language book for children or young adults.

It is conferred upon the author by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP), who calls it "the UK's oldest and most prestigious book award for children's writing".

The grand opening last Saturday was attended by many local residents who watched as “local legend” and delivery driver, “DPD Dan”, cut the ribbon to loud cheers.

Ally explained “We asked Dan to officially cut the ribbon as he’s somewhat of a legend around here!

"He is incredibly hard-working and he connects our rural town to the outside world. And he was a popular choice judging by the comments on social media too!”