VOLUNTEERS are preparing for a record-busting year at an annual book fair.

The 27th staging of the Colchester Book Fair in aid of the NSPCC at Holmwood House School in Chitts Hill, Lexden on Saturday and Sunday, October 29 and 30.

Approximately 35,000 books, CDs, DVDs, games and jigsaws will be available to purchase over the two days with all proceeds going towards the children’s charity.

Chairman of the NSPCC book fair committee Elisabeth Borg said: “We’ve come a long way since our first book fair in 1989 which was a one-day event and raised around £5,000.

“In celebration of the 30th anniversary of Childline, this year we hope to reach £25,000.

“From an original group of 12 volunteers, we now have 70 people helping during the weekend itself and around 25 people working throughout the year, collecting, sorting and pricing books.

“We are especially grateful to our sponsors, Boydens, and particularly to Holmwood House School for allowing us to use its excellent venue but it is the public who we really rely on to donate items and then support the fair itself.”

David Boyden, managing partner at Boydens, said: “As a long-established Colchester business, we are delighted to continue lending our support for what is an extremely worth cause.

The book fair is open between 9.30am and 4pm both days, with fresh books available on the Sunday.