Oxford Indie Book Fair was a big success at its new venue, according to one of the organisers.

Every year, the fair acts as a platform for independent authors, artists and illustrators to sell and showcase their work, build their readership, and interact with book lovers in Oxfordshire.

More than 70 exhibitors gathered at the Oxford Examination Schools in High Street on Sunday.

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Kennington-based author Sylvia Vetta said the event switched to a new venue so it could accommodate double the number of exhibitors.

She added: "I can’t quite believe it but the vision we had is coming true.

"There was excitement from the moment the exhibitors arrived and it got even better as the day progressed.

Oxford Mail: Vice Chancellor Prof Irene Tracey, right

"The highlight has to be the opening by the new Vice Chancellor, Professor Irene Tracey.

"The aim of the book fair is to be welcoming to everyone - town, gown, county, of all ages and all backgrounds.

"Unusually, Professor Tracey represents town, gown and county because she grew up in Kidlington and attended Gosford Hill Comprehensive School.

"Her speech was inspirational. Under her watch, we got the impression that university doors will open to Oxford citizens especially in the new humanities project. She toured the fair and evidently enjoyed it."

The team of young volunteers who worked tirelessly throughout the day were Brookes students.

Lizzie Spight, who visited the book fair, said: "It was lovely and buzzing, a great atmosphere and so much creativity.’

Oxford Mail: Vice Chancellor Prof Irene Tracey with volunteersMs Vetta, who launched her new crime novel Current of Death at the fair, added: "Part of the event's success was having Andy Severn of Oxford eBooks providing the tech knowhow.

"The huge screen available in the examination schools was an asset.

"The staff  were welcoming too so we will be back next year."

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About the author 

Andy is the Trade and Tourism reporter for the Oxford Mail and you can sign up to his newsletters for free here. 

He joined the team more than 20 years ago and he covers community news across Oxfordshire.

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