A BOOK detailing the history of one of North Wiltshire’s market towns through 300 never-before seen photos has sold all 700 copies in just under three weeks.

Malmesbury Now and Then, put together by Charles Vernon, has sold out since its launch at Julia & Hans Rausing Building on November 29.

The team behind the book have said there will be no more copies of the book printed, but plans for a second edition are in motion to come out in December 2020.

The idea for the book came from a Facebook group of the same name, run by Alison Cross-Jones, in which members posted old photos of the town as well as fond memories from childhoods.

Mr Vernon said: “It’s been a pleasure helping this idea become a reality. We had over 3000 images to choose from, so as you can imagine it’s been a difficult task.”

“I have been astounded at how well the book has been received and have enjoyed seeing the photos of people with their books and reading the reviews”

“When Alison first pitched the idea to me and others, I’m not sure we were convinced. Those who subscribed demonstrated that it was likely to be popular but to be almost sold out in less than 3 weeks is just unbelievable.”

All profits from book sales have been given to local charities the Athelstan Museum and the Malmesbury Civic Trust.

Sharon Nolan, chairman of Athelstan museum said: “Athelstan Museum was donated more than 250 books to sell to raise money for the museum. We sold out of our batch of copies within 2 weeks.

“I’ve never seen anything like it before in Malmesbury. It’s been a complete phenomenon. The museum relies on the support of the community and we’re delighted that this book will have now raised some valuable funds.

“I’d like to thank everyone from the museum volunteers, to all the members of Malmesbury Now and Then Facebook group and of course Charles, Alison and everyone else involved in the book and making it happen.”

Ms Cross-Jones added: There were so many people joining and sharing memories within the group that members had the book idea. “They also wanted it to do some good within the town by raising charitable funds.”

“From the start the Facebook group has always been about supporting the Athelstan Museum and the Malmesbury Civic Trust.”