Living Oasis Bedford was one of a new chain of Christian retailers in the UK which commenced operations in 2010, taking over most of the former Wesley Owen bookshops. Sadly, in early August 2011, the parent company, Nationwide Christian Trust, entered insolvency and most branches have now ceased trading.

Alun Jones, branch manager, writes:

My hope for the coming months is for continued development which with the new premises the full vision of Living Oasis can open in Bedford in the near future.

The official opening of Living Oasis Bedford took place on Saturday 13th March. We were delighted to welcome the Right Rev Richard Inwood, Bishop of Bedford who said a few words, prayed for the shop and the work of Living Oasis and cut the ribbon to declare the shop open. John Green, a trustee from Nationwide Christian Trust, said a few words in reply.

A full shop of over 40 people attended the opening. The support and prayers we have received from the local churches has been overwhelming and much appreciated, and we are seeing customers returning to the store all delighted that there is once again a Christian presence on the high street.

From: Living Oasis News, Summer 2010 (pdf, 1.5mb)

What Happened to Wesley Owen?