A LITTLE wooden cupboard in a community garden on Runcorn High Street is full of surprises.

The magical box houses a Little Free Library, one of 100 in the UK and more than 50,000 around the world.

Book tokens and gifts are often left inside by ‘book elves’ Runcorn's old town bloom book tree was created by artist Angela Sidwell and funded through Tesco Bags of Help community grant scheme and the sale of 5p plastic bags.

People are encouraged to share their love of reading by taking a book and leaving one in return.

The book tree was carved with animals and insects in keeping with a canal side themed garden in wood from fallen oak from Delamere Forest.

It has now been hailed a ‘library of distinction’ for its unique design and the creativity and enthusiasm of volunteers which makes it into an inspiring example for other Little Free Library stewards to follow.

Runcorn Town Team has supported the community garden, opposite the bus station, for several years through grants to run workshops.

Volunteers look after the garden and various special events are held to bring people together.

While the library belongs to everyone, the old town bloom community garden group keep a watchful eye on it.

Anyone who has spare books is invited to donate some to the library.

For more details e-mail oldtowmbloomers@gmail.com.