Manningtree Arts bookshop will showcase area's nature in literature

Zoe Biles grew up in Bradfield before leaving to pursue a career in the arts.

She returned to the area during the pandemic and was inspired to get started on the shop, Manningtree Arts.

Initially, Zoe was unsure what her ideas would produce. She thought about a theatre or performance space but eventually settled on her first love, books.

Zoe said: “When I returned to the area, I realised how much I’d missed it.

"I had great memories of picking up books from Townsends in Manningtree.

“This store will be reflective of the current Manningtree community which is a lot younger with more families.

“Stories and books are a fantastic way to connect communities so I thought this would be a perfect time to use my arts expertise and open a shop.”

Manningtree Arts will sell all sorts of books but will focus on two types in particular, the first will cover local artists and scenery, such as the waters, estuaries and land in the area.

The second specialty will be children’s books and Manningtree Arts will have a vibrant children’s section.

Zoe added: “I want to have books that feel specific to the area and I want it to be a space that inspires young people across the town to feel creative and engage with their imagination.”

Manningtree Arts aims to be more than just a bookshop and will serve coffee, with a special brew delivered from The Penny Roaster in Ipswich.

The store will also host several events, including workshops, Q and A sessions with authors, and storytelling events for children.

Zoe is a new member of the Manningtree District Business Chamber and attended her first meeting this month.

She said: “The first meeting was brilliant. Everyone was so welcoming and I’m so excited to be working with such wonderful people.

“The chamber has lots of fun ideas planned for the rest of the year.”

Manningtree Arts will open in the coming months in the town's High Street.

For more information visit manningtreearts.com.