The first of a new series of Christian microbookshops is to be set up in Bath.

The sales at a city centre church will fill a gap left by the sudden closure of the Wesley Owen store in St James's Parade.

It is being launched by the Rev Richard Greatrex – who managed the store – and online bookseller David Wavre.

The microshop will carry Mr Wavre's A Great Read brand and will be followed by more in churches in Bristol, Radstock and Frome.

The pair are in the final stages of negotiations over the location of the mini-bookshop.

Mr Wavre said: "Each shop or stall will have a range of top titles, perennial favourites and newly-published books available as well as the monthly comprehensive A Great Read magazines, detailing hand-picked newly-published and established titles."

His Westbury-based website www.agreatread.co.uk holds around 80,000 Christian titles, CDs, DVDs and cards.

He added: "It seems obvious to say but bookshops are not like supermarkets – you don't go to fill your trolley with supplies, whisk through the self-checkout and home. A Christian bookshop is a hub of activity, knowledge and advice – a place that represents the rich diversity of the Christian faith, and it is this aspect that Richard and I are keen to offer churches that come on board.

"A bookshop on church premises broadens the church's appeal and mission and serves as a focal point for book readers in the area."

Mr Greatrex plans to work with individual churches to organise events such as author talks and to launch reading clubs.

Churches that take up the scheme will be able to make a modest income from their stall.