A VINTAGE store dedicated to “keeping memories alive” is thriving on the high street after more than 30 years of business.

Clobber, in Christchurch Road, has been recognised as one of the top vintage clothing stores in the country and is the Daily Echo’s Trader of the Week.

Richard Mason took over the shop 25 years ago and has since been praised nationally including being listed in the top seven stores in the UK by The Times.

(Image: Newsquest)

“We are normally listed within the top 50 vintage clothes shops but to be in the top seven, I was chuffed,” said Richard.

He added he has had an interest in “vintage and quirky clothes” since growing up in the 1980s.

“I was always the alternative and the opportunity arose to take over the shop and I just loved it.”

Richard said Pokesdown is “coming up in the world” with many shoppers from London travelling down just to visit his store.

“If you look at other town centres around Bournemouth, a lot of them are dying, but places like Westbourne and Southbourne are thriving.”

(Image: Richard Mason)

After being established for more than 30 years, Richard said Clobber has become more refined and in tune with the market.

“There’s not many of these shops around anymore so if you have an interest in vintage clothing or are buying or selling it then you’re always looking for it.”

He added: “My favourite thing is finding it, it’s like treasure hunting.

“There’s a certain excitement when someone comes into the shop with a bin bag full of clothing and you don’t know what is going to be in it.”

Richard pays for second-hand clothing and can collect the items from people’s homes.

“A lot of the time I’m walking into quite sad situations, doing house calls where someone has passed away and it is their mother’s or partner’s clothing.

“We recycle and keep memories alive, which is what people like about vintage clothing because it has that history.”

Richard said he is always searching for new items and is eager to pay people for their unwanted clothes.

Clobber can be contacted on 01202 433330. 

A selection of Clobber’s ‘treasures’ is also featured on its Instagram @clobberbournemouth.