Portsmouth university bookshop announces closure date

Blackwell’s, based at the University of Portsmouth, announced on its Facebook page that its last day of trading will be tomorrow.

Doubt had been cast on the future of the Cambridge Road store, which has been open since 2004, after discussions with the university over its tenancy halted.

Manager Jo West thanked all customers for their support over the years.

She said: ‘I have loved working at Blackwell’s, it has been a great joy.

‘I would like to thank all of the customers who have been supportive over the years and more specifically the past few months.

‘They have been terrific and it has been a pleasure and a privilege to work with four great people.’

The statement on Facebook added: ‘It has been our pleasure to work among shelves full of friends - old and new; academic, comforting, challenging and frivolous - and to introduce them to customers.

‘It has been wonderful to help nurture and celebrate writers.’