Justin Atwell, who runs Harlequin Fancy Dress, has been shocked at the number of adults buying character-themed clothing at his shop in Westlegate.

Costumes including Willy Wonka and the Oompa Loompas, favourites from Roald Dahl's book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, have been a hit.

The increase in customers has even led Mr Attwell to open his shop for an extra day.

He said: "The shop has been busier than ever.

"We were open for an extra day on March 1, ahead of World Book Day on March 5.

"Although we have a range of ages visiting the store, surprisingly, I have seen a lot of teachers coming in to buy costumes.

World Book Day is on March 5 (Image: Denise Bradley)

"Willy Wonka and the Oompa Loompas from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory have been really popular.

"I think that's because it's a good group costume for teachers.

Justin Attwell, the owner of Harlequin Fancy Dress (Image: Denise Bradley)

Willy Wonka costumes for adults at Harlequin Fancy Dress (Image: Denise Bradley)

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"The Oompa Loompas are fun outfits, especially with the orange face paint.

"Some people have been really creative and aren't just looking to buy a complete costume.

"We sell all of the accessories too, including wigs.

"The accessories for Thing One and Thing Two from the Dr Seuss book have also gone down well."

Mr Attwell has been diversifying the outfits he stocks in-store following its opening in October last year.

Justin Attwell (Image: Denise Bradley)

After a successful start to the shop, Mr Attwell is now considering expanding his business.

He said: "We have started stocking Korean pop music costumes.

"Our supplier has just released five different types.

The popular K-Pop costumes (Image: Denise Bradley)

"At the moment, they are just girls' costumes but there is a good age range.

"They will be releasing boys' costumes later in the year too.

"We are always thinking about opening a second shop.

"However, we give a lot of service and advice to customers at the shop.

"It could be too difficult to manage."

© Eastern Daily Press