Popular children’s author Jacqueline Wilson was officially opening the revamped White Horse Bookshop today.

The independent bookshop was bought from former owner Michael Pooley, who ran the shop since 1973, by Robert Hiscox, who lives at the Rainscombe Park estate in Oare, and Aldbourne estate owner Brian Kingham.

It was closed for three and a half weeks while the refurbishment took place under new manager Angus MacLennan.

He said: “So far everything has been absolutely wonderful and the response from people very positive.

“People have said it looks a lot better which makes the whole thing worthwhile.”

Although booklovers have been able to browse the new collections for two weeks, the official launch is today.

Award-winning children’s author Dame Jacqueline is best known for her Tracy Beaker stories.

Mr MacLennan, a former manager of Waterstone’s in Chelsea, said: “Children’s books are important to a bookstore, especially and independent one.

“There has always been a very large children’s section here and we want that to grow.

“I know that she was planning to visit the store anyway so it seemed logical to combine the two things.

“There are a lot of children who are very excited but it will only be a short visit. It won’t be a book signing.”