Vinyl Van will be taking part in Record Store Day for the first time - with a special event just for the occasion.

In its first celebration of the day, Vinyl Van will open its doors at 8am and invite customers to take over the decks, spinning their favourite tunes as part of an all-day 'Joy of Decks' event. Refreshments will also be served throughout the day, courtesy of shop owner, Mark Smith's mum.

The annual day brings record lovers together worldwide to celebrate independent record shops and the unique role they play within communities. Since its beginnings in 2007. The day has grown year on year, with 260 independent record shops set to take part in the UK this year.

Mark said: "Previously we have been too independent to take part in Record Store Day, but we've spent time getting accounts with some of the major labels and feel really excited to be having our first celebration this year."

Vinyl Van was born in February 2019, when founders Mark Smith and Helen Moody decided to start selling vinyl from their VW Camper at local festivals, events and markets. Despite a few challenges along the way, including opening a shop in Brewery Square three months before Covid struck, the shop continues to evolve and attract vinyl lovers.

Charlotte Spracklen, centre manager at brewery Square, said: "Vinyl van is a fantastic asset to brewery Square, bringing a unique offering to make shopping experiences even more special. 

"Independent stores like Vinyl Van are cherished by our local community, so we encourage everyone to come and show their support on Record Store Day by paying a visit and having a spin on the decks from their incredible selection of music."

Mark added: "We're not sure what to expect but we hope it will be a great day for everyone. We feel so lucky to be doing what we do. We love music and the connections we are making through the shop and the community that is building around it. We feel really proud of what we've achieved in difficult times and the fact that we're still here and still smiling."

Vinyl Van will host its 'Joy of Decks' event between 8am and 5pm on Saturday, April 23 at its shop at 8a Pope Street, Brewery Square.