A WORCESTER writer is on a one-woman crusade to shed a light on her beloved city’s rich history after discovering legendary author Charles Dickens once stayed in the building she’s since transformed into a bookshop.

The ‘A Christmas Carol’ author visited The Swan Hotel on Worcester High Street, on August 11, 1858. 

In a bizarre quirk of fate, last year Dickens' old stomping ground reopened as the Script Haven independent bookshop.

Bookshop owner Leena Batchelor, who is Worcestershire’s former poet laureate, has been given a greenlight by the Worcester Civic Society to install a blue plaque marking Dickens’ historic visit to Worcester.  

Worcester News: OPENING DAY: There were long queues at Script Haven on its first day.OPENING DAY: There were long queues at Script Haven on its first day. (Image: Newsquest)

She told the Worcester News: “Despite having a passion for history and the area which I've made my home, I had no idea of this link. 

“To be able to continue that legacy and promote one of the most prolific authors and social commentators of our time is an honour.”

Script Haven staff are now looking to raise the cash needed to install the plaque. 

But, keen not to ask her customers for further donations after they recently contributed to a refurbishment at Script Haven, Leena said she would use cash from sales or her shop’s coffee, books or tickets from events to fund the plaque. 

Leena discovered the link between her shop and Dickens through a chance conversation with some customers. 

With the help of The Hive, Worcester City Council and others, Leena found definitive proof Dickens stayed at the hotel turned bookshop.

Proof of the ‘Great Expectations’ writers trip to the Faithful City included a letter Dickens wrote to fellow novelist Wilkie Collins from the Swan Hotel. 

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Following her discovery, passionate historian Leena has called for more to be done to promote Worcester's place on the world stage across the ages. 

She added: “So much has been consigned to the vaults of history and few know how or where to access this. 

“When I was Poet in Residence at the Commandery I discovered so much that isn't talked about enough. 

“I'd love to be able to help change that.

“Worcester has a special place in my heart since I've moved here.”

Script Haven was recently ranked as the third best independent bookshop in the UK by The Times.