A SWINDON-BORN fashion-lover went on to create his own menswear collections and become an acclaimed designer.

As part of our Shout About Swindon campaign. George Clarke told of has fond memories of growing up in the town and enjoying textiles lessons at Kingsdown School, which inspired him to turn his love of fashion into a full-time career.

The 31-year-old from Stratton St Margaret said: “Swindon has changed so much since I grew up there but it’s still very close to my heart, I know it like the back of my hand, it’s a homely and welcoming place and my family all live there, so I’m always happy to return to it. I have lots of fond memories and I remember trying to get a skate park built there when I was younger because I was into that as well as fashion.”

George put his aspirations on hold when he became a father while at college and looked after young Charlie until he was old enough to go to school, then George re-applied for college and finished his course.

He went on to study fashion design at Bath Spa University, made his own clothing brand, then moved to London and used his collections to raise awareness of mental health issues.

He added: “I lived in Swindon until I was 24 and then I moved to Bath so I could commute to uni while not being too far away from my son. At uni, I had the opportunity and freedom to create my own personal style, I was quite successful and have had my collections on a few catwalks, which is always exciting, though it is a bit nervous standing in front of the judges. I’ve found a niche I love and enjoy. Even the difficult moments have been good learning experiences and I’ve worked hard to get where I am today, I’m happier and stronger than I used to be.”

He has explored the issue of mental health in his Freedom of Expression collection, particularly the idea of feeling trapped inside his own mind, which led to clothes incorporating a theme of prison uniforms and straitjackets. George has worked with Levi’s and the British Fashion Council. He has been a finalist in competitions including the Sustainable Denim Design Awards and ID Fashion’s International Emerging Designer Award. His next goal is to have his clothes at London Fashion Week.