A BOOKSHOP in Douglas is undergoing a facelift after receiving a £7,500 grant to update the exterior of the building.

The Book Company in Castle Street successfully applied to the Town and Village Centre Regeneration Fund to improve the front of the shop and to install illuminated signage.

Proprietor Spencer Benham said: "All the indications are that Douglas is gradually 'on the up' and as traders I believe it's important we do all we can to raise the image of the town centre.

"Thanks to the grant, which funded half of the £15,000 cost, we've been able to go for a more ambitious scheme and have opted for a 'heritage' design that is a contemporary interpretation of Douglas's Victorian past.

"Hopefully once the work's completed it will serve as a catalyst to other traders to improve the facades of their premises and alert them to the fact that grants are available."

Chris Pycroft, the development manager of the Douglas Development Partnership, said: "We're delighted Spencer Benham shares the Douglas Regeneration Committee's views on the importance of promoting a positive image for Douglas town centre.

"The Book Company enjoys a prominent position in Castle Street and the new look shop front will serve to enhance the area and attract greater numbers of shoppers to that end of Douglas's retail centre."

Douglas Borough council leader Councillor David Christian JP said: "In these challenging trading times it is all the more important that Douglas projects a professional open-for-business image.

"I welcome this enterprising initiative by Spencer and am pleased that he has recognised the opportunities that support from the Town and Village Centre Regeneration Fund can provide to retailers in Douglas."

For more information on how to apply for funding click here.