A COBBLERS in the city centre is celebrating its first year in business, and its owner says it is going "from strength to strength". 

Stuart Moss, 52, opened Mossy's Shoe Repairs at 86 New Canal last year after moving to the rural village of Newton Tony for a calmer life.

Stuart Moss said: "It's going really well. I opened the shop at the back end of August (2023) and the response I have had from the community has been outstanding. 

"I have had so many good reviews, recommendations, repeat customers already, it has just gone from strength to strength. 

Stuart has changed the shop "dramatically" since he first he moved in, redecorating and buying new machinery. 

This includes two new stitching machines, a computer engraver and a new counter at the front of the store. 

"I am a traditional cobbler", said Stuart. "I also do a lot of leatherwork as well. I am currently fixing a gun case, and I do a lot of work for Greenfields Gunmakers [on Milford Street]." 

Stuart MossStuart Moss (Image: Newsquest)

The third-generation cobbler had been repairing shoes since he was 13 and worked under his father before running his own business in Southend-on-Sea, Essex.

He has also repaired a 1943 camp bed that his customer still uses to this day, having previously belonged to her grandfather during the second world war. 

He said: "I can do pretty much anything, really.

"I have been doing this since I was 13, I am 52 now, and I still love my job." 

Mossy's opens from 8.30am-5pm on weekdays and 9am-5pm on Saturdays offering shoe, leather and watch repairs as well as key cutting and engravings.