A TOP author joined a high street business in Maldon to help mark a long-awaited expansion.

Maldon Books is based at 23 Maldon High Street, with the expansion seeing neighbouring number 21 become part of the business.

They are now adding vinyl records to their offering with new record store Novel Sounds now open to the public for the first time.

It was first reported in January that the independent book shop would be branching out into the empty building next door.

The official opening took place on Saturday, with Nick Butterworth, author of the Percy the Park Keeper series, in attendance to cut the ribbon.

A book signing in the newly refurbished children’s books section was also planned.

Olivia Rosenthall, owner of Maldon Books, said: “We had a really, really busy opening day.

“We had a record breaking day, so many people were in.

“We were overwhelmed in the best possible way for people to come to see Nick Butterworth and our new shop.

“I can’t really believe it - I’m still in shock to be honest.

“It was a lovely day. I can’t believe so many people came.”