A bookshop in Carlisle has joined forces with a new national project that is supporting independent bookshops across the country.

Bookends is one of hundreds across the UK to sign up to Bookshop, which is a new business rivalling Amazon by giving shoppers an “ethical” alternative to buy their books while also supporting independent shops.

Whenever a book is bought through Bookshop.org, the chosen bookstore receives a 30 per cent commission on it.

Lucy Matthews, owner of Bookends, said: “As soon as we heard about it we just thought it was a brilliant initiative.

“We do have a website of our own which sells local books and we also put things like signed copies on it but it’s really hard to have all of our stock on the website and also maintain it.

“I think every independent bookshop probably feels that way, it’s really difficult to compete with a website as big and comprehensive like Amazon and Waterstones.”

With the news of a second lockdown, the launch of the new platform is good news for people who want to continue to support their local economies.

Bookends will still be open, taking orders over the phone and online but this just helps a little bit more.

“People are wanting to do their Christmas shopping but obviously they can’t go into shops and they want to stay safe,” Lucy said.

“We are definitely open for business but as an alternative Bookshop.org offers a fantastic range of more than half a million titles available to order within two or three days.

“So, anybody who can’t get into town, obviously the shops are closed, has got another alternative to shopping online to Amazon.”

The bookshops can create lists of books they would recommend which adds a greater level of connection, such as feminist books, Cumbrian reads, and cookbooks.

Andy Hunter, CEO and founder of Bookshop.org, said: “Bookshops are essential to a healthy culture, and online sales are vital to safeguarding their future. We can’t afford to lose them.

“Covid-19 has added further urgency to the need for bookshops to compete for online sales.”

“Bookshop.org’s mission is to empower customers in supporting local, brick and mortar bookstores, providing book buyers with an easy way to shop online while continuing to support their local high street.”