DICK and Dom praised an award-winning independent bookstore as they signed copies of their new book for hundreds of excited children in Urmston last Friday.

Known to a generation of kids for their zany antics on a string of hit BBC shows, the comedy duo visited Urmston Bookshop, on Flixton Road, to promote Dick and Dom's Slightly Naughty but Very Silly Words.


The Bafta winning pair said the shop's owners had stayed with them all day and been a great support backstage, as they performed skits at St John's Catholic Primary, Chorlton First, Oswald Road Primary and Urmston Junior schools.


Dom, 35, said: "It is wonderful to see an independent book shop like this playing such an important role in the community."


Dick, 37, added: "They serve very tasty cake too!"


Capturing Northern Rail's regional 'hidden gem' title in 2011, the literary retailer, which celebrated it's third anniversary in October, has been turning a few heads with their high profile guests.


Dick and Dom's presence follows visits by Blackadder star Tony Robinson and former MP turned Strictly Come Dancing favourite Ann Widdecombe - with comedian Johnny Vegas next to appear at an event hosted by the shop next month.


Married couple Peter and Frances Hopkins, both 57, who own the store, regularly take authors around schools to engage with young readers - and have even been acknowledged in Ofsted reports.


Mr Hopkins, a former accountant, said they are delighted with the recognition they have been receiving, and are proving that there is still a place in the high street for independent book shops.


He added: : "It is not just all about selling books. We want to do our bit for literature and be part of the community too.


"Frances was a teacher for 25 years and this has always been her dream."