TWO local bookshops have been shortlisted for the Independent Bookshop of the Year award for Wales and the South West.

The Forest Bookshop in Coleford and the Chepstow Bookshop have made the regional shortlist of six shops, in a competition billed as the Oscars of the book trade.

Entries are judged on the range of stock, the helpfulness and knowledge of the staff, the overall shop atmosphere, web innovation, buying judgement, creativity in shop events and customer service.

Forest Bookshop manager Ann Ingleby-Lewis said: "We are absolutely delighted and very proud. Hopefully we will be successful this year."

She says it is down to the high level of customer service and the knowledge and dedication of the staff, who care about the books and the customers.

Ann added: "We know our customers as friends and we know their book needs.

"People are very loyal and continue to use us despite the economic climate and we are very grateful for that."

Chepstow Bookshop owner Matthew Taylor said: "Having two bookshops on the shortlist is fantastic for the area. We are really pleased to be on the list.

"I think it is down to all the events and activities we are doing, bringing the bookshop alive."

He has a series of talks and book signings planned which he says are proving popular with customers.