VOLUNTEERS donned Dickensian garb to help re-launch a charity book shop in Havelock Square.

Scrooge, Agnes Trotwood and Little Nell, characters invented by Charles Dickens, were out in force to help raise the profile of the 18-month-old Oxfam outlet.

But the real twist in the tale came with a morning visit from Queen Victoria Swindon double Mary Ratcliffe.

Deputy shop manager Sue Dunmore explained: "Most people still don't know the bookshop is here.

"We really need to make people aware of the fact that we are here, and happy to serve them.".

Members of the Wootton Bassett Light Operatic Society were happy to help volunteers spread the message.

They delighted customers by performing a number of traditional Christmas carols outside the store.

"It was a great day and hopefully it has worked," said Sue.