The owner of Penarth's award-winning independent bookshop, Mel Griffin, has revealed plans to extend the business this spring. Griffin Books - located at the entrance to Windsor Arcade on Penarth's high street - will more than double in size when it opens a dedicated children's department in the next door premises from April.  

The space is currently occupied by independent gift retailer [email protected]. Business owner, Cathy Evans, announced on social media last month that she will close [email protected] at the end of March to spend more time with her grandchildren and concentrate on her new venture Knit1Purl1 on Glebe Street.  

The expansion of Griffin Books comes just six months after the shop celebrated its 10th birthday and two years since it was named UK Independent Bookshop of the Year at the 2023 British Book Awards. 

Mel Griffin said: "Looking back at all we've achieved in the past decade and with new adventures just around the corner, we can't wait to start the next exciting chapter in the Griffin Books story. Extending the shop into the next door premises will enable us to create a dedicated children's department, as well as expanding our provision for adults, which we're very excited about."

Griffin Books is well known for its busy programme of author events, bringing a host of big name authors and celebrities to Penarth (including Davina McCall, Dan Biggar, David Nicholls, Colm Tóibín, Ann Cleeves, Matt Haig and Jojo Moyes), as well as platforming local Welsh talent. A dedicated children's department will build on the shop's services for children and young people, which already includes a weekly toddler Storytime session, book clubs for kids and teens and school events. 

Mel continued: "Expansion wasn't something I initially had my sights set on, but when the opportunity arose it felt like the right move at the right time. Cathy has always been the most supportive business neighbour and a fount of wisdom and experience, so I look forward to continuing to contribute to the vitality of Penarth's high street, as she has always done. Watch this space!" 

Keep an eye on the Griffin Books website and social media for further updates. 

www.griffinbooks.co.uk / @griffinbooksuk