Co-owner buys out bookshop with 100,000-strong collection

Vivienne Mills, who has spent two decades converting the run-down Soar End Farmhouse on the Arbury Estate into the Astley Book Farm, has now taken over as its sole owner after buying out her co-owner Sarah Exley.

The deal will see the two part ways and Vivienne press ahead with plans to improve on site facilities, boost the shop’s café area and continue adding to the 100,000 plus stockpile of books.

She has also brought in the help of accountancy firm Burgis & Bullock to help with the other side of bookkeeping so she can focus on creating the best customer experience possible.

She said: “I wish Sarah all the best and I am really proud to be able to continue the amazing job we started. It has been a great partnership and I am delighted to push the business forward as Sarah enjoys a less frenetic time.

“This is more than a full-time job, it is a lifestyle as we are open seven days a week and close just six days a year.

“We are forever purchasing new stock and the nature of our site means there is always work to be carried out to our facilities.”

The huge variety of books on offer at Astley Book Farm range from £9,000 to 50p in value and in recent years Vivenne and Sarah have invested in its garden and café areas to cater for the growing need for rural businesses to diversify.

Sean Farnell, a partner at Burgis & Bullock which backed the deal, said it was exciting to work with such a unique business.

“Astley Book Farm is a one off and Sarah and Vivienne have built a super business which attracts people far and wide.

“We are working with Vivienne on Making Tax Digital, introducing her to Xero accounting and helping with payroll.”