GARDENING and literature fans queued round the block for the chance to meet television favourite Alan Titchmarsh when he signed copies of his novel Rosie at Ottakars in Dorchester.

Rosie tells the story of Nick Robinson and his increasingly dotty grandmother who, at 86, is still trying to match her grandson up with his ideal partner.

Ottakars events co-ordinator Jenny Bullock said the afternoon had been a huge success.

She said: "We had a really nice mix of people here, including families and even some students who wanted their T-shirts signed.

"Alan was really nice - he was so friendly and made time to stop and chat to people and to have his photograph taken with them.

"There was a lovely atmosphere and we're really pleased with how it went."