The former home of a newsagents that served Old Town residents for more than 50 years is getting a new lease of life.

Generations of Swindonians fondly remember visits to M I Earle on Newport Street, which closed just before Christmas last year.

Myles Earle founded the store in 1970 and, together with his wife Rosemary, they spent decades providing friendly customer service and tasty sweet treats to the community.

After Mr Earle died in autumn 2021, Rose took charge of the business and kept it going for another two years before putting on an everything-must-go closing-down sale in December 2022 and enjoying a well-earned retirement.

She was overwhelmed by the kind words and thoughtful gifts from customers and former colleagues who popped in to say farewell.

Swindon Advertiser: Rosemary Earle outside M I Earle newsagents in Swindon's Old Town in December 2022.Rosemary Earle outside M I Earle newsagents in Swindon's Old Town in December 2022. (Image: Newsquest)Swindon Advertiser: What the former newsagents currently looks likeWhat the former newsagents currently looks like (Image: Dave Cox)

The signage and outdoor displays that once adorned the shopfront have disappeared, but new notices that cover the property's front windows suggest that work is currently being carried out.

A business established in 1986 will be relocating there and expanding into a larger space than its previous home by the end of this year.