FORMER hostage Terry Waite helped open a new independent book store and encouraged children to get into reading.
Most famous for negotiating the release of captives around the world before being taken hostage himself for five years in 1987, Mr Waite cut the ribbon to open the Madhatter Bookshop in Wantage on Saturday.
It’s the second Madhatter in the county – one opened in Burford four year ago.
The 76-year-old author said: “Our independent bookshops are absolutely essential to engage children with books.”
People flocked to the shop just a short walk from the Market Square to enjoy wine and cakes on opening day.
Owner Margaret O’Donohoe said: “Terry Waite is the nicest man in the world. He drove all the way from Suffolk to open the shop.
“He was at Wantage Literary Festival and I told him I was setting up a shop. He instantly volunteered to open it.
“He’s so passionate about independent bookshops and getting children into reading.”
She added: “This is our second shop after opening one in Burford, which sold hats as well as books.
“And Terry turned up wearing a fedora, which was great.”
The bookshop, in Mill Street, will also sell hats.
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