Children's author Christina Gabbitas is set to open her own bookshop in Harrogate today (Thursday).
The Real Indie Bookshop has taken over the former Prey Four premises at 4 Parliament Street.
It’s open from 8am to 9pm today, with authors dropping in to sign books and pianist Ciaran Gilligan due to play this evening.
The shop stocks books for all ages, with independent authors sharing shelf space with bestsellers.

Christina also plans to work with local primary and secondary schools on a ‘Pay it Forward’ scheme to get free books and vouchers to children who might otherwise miss out.
Christina published her first Felicity Fly book in 2012. In 2019, she founded a children’s literature charity that brings free books and literary events to families in disadvantaged communities.
Christina said:
“I’ve been writing since 2012 and have sold thousands of books in the UK and overseas.
"I know how much it means when someone gives your work a chance.
"That’s why you’ll find books by independent authors alongside popular and bestselling titles.
"I especially want to make room for writers from the North and from working-class backgrounds whose voices too often go unheard.”
Some of the shelves and tables came from WHSmith branches where Christina held book signings between 2012 and 2020.
The shop also has a music section, with its first vinyl records due to arrive on Friday.
Follow The Real Indie Bookshop on social media for updates. For more information email info@christinagabbitas.com.

Kex Gill A59 traffic restrictions expected to be lifted in early December
Gail's Bakery to open in Harrogate next week
Ridley & Hall opens new Harrogate office
Opening date revealed for Harrogate's new Japanese-Brazilian restaurant
Harrogate High students turn recycled bottles into Remembrance poppies
More than 600 pupils attend Festival of Remembrance at Ripon Cathedral
Harrogate clinic offers saliva test for suspected endometriosis
Council accused of 'illusion of listening' over school transport consultation
North Yorkshire councillors to vote on next chief executive
Harrogate nursery earns UNICEF UK award for children's rights
Police find man asleep in car after £1,500 theft at Harrogate Sainsbury's
Harrogate named Britain's second happiest place to live
Inside the Christmas shop tucked away in a Harrogate church
Knaresborough gets ready to sparkle for Bright Friday Christmas celebrations
Harrogate firm raises £1,500 for Andy's Man Club
The Harrogate Story to reopen in March with new displays
Stonefall Park earns 'Outstanding' rating for second year running
Ripon Runners back campaign to keep trainers out of landfill
Harrogate pupils create poppy display for Remembrance Day
Harrogate pupil lands solo in national tour of The Snowman


