An independent bookshop says a drop in footfall and cost-of-living pressures mean the business is now “impossible to manage alone”.

The Haunted Bookshop opened in Bristol two years ago for “anyone who has ever felt a little different” and specialises in horror, fantasy, folklore and the occult.

Owner, Monika Killer, said he business has fallen behind on essential bills. Killer has started a crowd fundraiser, which has so far seen more than 450 supporters pledge over £7,500 to save the shop.

Customer Sarina Maloy said the space gives people a chance to connect, and “it would be a severe loss if the shop shuts down”.