A POPULAR charity book sale is calling for unwanted books from across north Essex.

The bumper book fair, at Holmwood House School, Colchester, in October, is in aid of children’s charity, the NSPCC. Last year the event raised £24,000.

Estate agents Boydens and John V Story are offering their branches as drop-off points.

Elisabeth Borg, chairman of the NSPCC book fair committee, said: “Last year was a bumper one for the fairs, so it will be a huge challenge to better it. Boydens’ offices gave us a great boost last year and we are sure it will be again this year.

“Our team of volunteers are waiting to spring into action once books have been donated.”

Books can be donated at the estate agents’ offices in Colchester, Braintree, Kelvedon, Frinton and Clacton.

They will also be collected at the Co-op, Butt Hill Road, Clacton, and Peartree Road, Lexden, as well as Barnplants Garden Centre, Turkeycock Lane, Stanway, Hearts’ Delight Nursery, Long Road, Lawford, Tom Farm Shop, Maldon Road, Tiptree and Stonefield Farm Shop, Kelvedon Road, Inworth.

Anyone unable to get to a collection point, and who would their donated items collected, can phone 01206 271616.