Ottaker's, the national bookshop chain, has opened a new branch in Worthing.

The 4,000sqft store in Montague Street was officially launched on Saturday and, according to a statement, has more than 25,000 titles in stock.

Now the shop's 15 staff are preparing for the biggest day in the publishing calender - the release of Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince on July 16.

Manager Phil Boakes said: "It will be a great day - we will open at midnight for everyone who just can't wait a minute later, and have a real party atmosphere."

His next task will be to attract big names to the store for book signings.

He said: "We have an excellent record at Ottakar's for attracting the biggest and best authors.

"We'll do our best to make sure we get our fair share to Worthing."

June 23, 2005