It has been a haven for book-lovers for 40 years and counts former Beatle Sir Paul McCartney and the Reverend Ian Paisley among its customers.

But Practical Books in Hove will soon be closing its doors for good because its owner can no longer afford the lease.

Increasing property prices and rents have already forced a number of smaller stores in Brighton's North Laine to shut.

Now the impact of spiralling costs is spreading to businesses in Western Road, where Practical Books has been selling new and second-hand books since 1963.

Owner Yvonne Norman says her rent has almost doubled following a recent review.

She said: "I enjoy working here but I simply cannot afford to pay the rent. The review came through a few weeks ago and it has taken a while for it to sink in.

"At the time it was a total shock but when you think about it rents are sure to increase when property prices are so high."

Mrs Norman took over Practical Books four years ago and the shop has specialised in spiritual books ever since.

A number of Hove's celebrity residents have been customers.

Paul McCartney visited last summer and 'Allo 'Allo star Arthur Bostrom has also called in.

Other regular customers are mourning the loss of the shop.

Peter Richwood, 63, of Waterloo Street, said: "I have been coming here for years.

"I like it because it is small and friendly. Staff get to know you and you get to know them. It is such a shame it is shutting."

Mrs Norman has yet to decide what her future holds after the store closes in September.

But she said: "I'll probably end up moving to Spain like everyone else."