LOCAL authors are worried about the future success of their books following a major retail deal. HMV, which owns the Waterstone's book chain, has agreed to buy the Ottakar's chain in a deal worth £62.8 million. The Ottakar's store in the Sovereign Shoppin

LOCAL authors are worried about the future success of their books following a major retail deal.HMV, which owns the Waterstone's book chain, has agreed to buy the Ottakar's chain in a deal worth £62.8 million.The Ottakar's store in the Sovereign Shopping Centre, Weston, is known for promoting works by local authors through displays and signings.Historian Sharon Poole, who has written 13 books on Weston, said: "I hope they continue to support us as other companies that sell books don't really do that."Ottakar's is brilliant and has helped me successfully launch my books in the past." North Somerset councillor John Crockford-Hawley, who represents Weston's Central Ward, said: "The company has a first-class record of encouraging an interest in local history and local authors and it has been prepared to take commercial risks in this field. "Other high street chains have never shown this degree of local interest."Ottakar's assistant manager Sian Blackmore said: "We're very much in the dark about the sale at the moment, but we will continue to operate as we do and support local authors.