AFTER 10 years, two familiar faces at The Bookery, Dee Lalljee and Andrew Davey, will be leaving this autumn to pursue new projects.

Dee is handing the CEO role to Steve Ryan, an FE and HE Principal in music education for almost two decades, who is passionate about the transformative power of the arts and education for both individuals and communities.

Both Dee and Andrew have been involved in the growth of the organisation since its inception as a small community bookshop in 2013, through to the purchase of its current High Street premises and expansion to create a valued Community Hub.

Dee said: “I have spent 10 extraordinary years at The Bookery and it has been a joy to work with our amazing team, developing the business, delivering events, and supporting the growth of our schools and outreach activities.

“This year saw the completion of our building plans and the fulfilment of our 10-year growth strategy.

“Now is the right time to pass on the baton of this brilliant project and we have every confidence Steve will do a great job leading the organisation into its next stage. I am excited to see what happens next.”

Andrew added: “Our team will ensure business continues as usual.

“We appreciate your support - every purchase, no matter how big or small, makes a difference to the bookshop and enables us to contribute to our unique and vibrant town.”

Steve Ryan said: “Dee has established a brilliant bookshop at the heart of the community and I look forward to rising to the challenge of shaping the next part of The Bookery’s journey.”

On behalf of The Bookery Board, Chair Jackie Dawkins said: “We have been lucky to have Dee and Andrew’s inspiring contribution over the last decade, we wish them every success in their new ventures and we are excited to welcome Steve as new CEO.”

The Bookery is a community-owned not-for-profit social enterprise trading as an independent bookshop.

It promotes social and cultural projects in Crediton’s schools and community and won Independent Bookshop of the Year and Children’s Bookseller of the Year at the British Book Awards 2022.