ILLUSTRATOR Tony Meeuwissen joined his community at Amberley in Stroud for the opening of its phone box library.

Renowned artist Tony, multi-award winning postage stamp and children’s book designer, cut a red ribbon to officially launch the free book swop in the old kiosk on the edge of Minchinhampton Common.

Villagers joined 60 pupils from Amberley Parochial Primary School for the fun ceremony introduced by their teacher Paul Beech.

It was fantastic to have local resident Tony, creator of children’s titles “The Witch’s Hat” and “Remarkable Animals”, present, said Mr Beech.

“I am addicted to books,” he told the crowd.

“I am 42 years old and still read by torchlight at night, children’s books are amazing and with this library they can be read again and again.”

Minchinhampton Parish Council adopted the redundant phone box.

A team of volunteers, including council member Jennifer Molyneux, spruced it up and installed bookshelves ready for its relaunch as a library.

Funding for paint and shelves came from the Amberley Allotment Trust.

“It was an unexpected honour to be invited to open such a delightful telephone box library,” said Tony.

“I hope it will be a source of pleasure and inspiration to Amberley booklovers of all ages.”