Each week Exmouth Nub News will be featuring a different business or organisation in the town to help support our wonderful community.

This week, we speak to Ryan Ballett who owns Albion Cobblers, with his partner Dawn Leach.

Tell us about yourself?

My father-in-law started off 40 years ago in Budleigh. When they closed down he moved to Exmouth and that is where Albion Cobblers has been ever since.

My partner and I took over the store a few years ago so it is a family business. We are just getting ready to move from Albion Street to a bigger premises on Exeter Road.

Dawn is Budleigh born and bred and I am from Exeter.

We have been together for 10 years and have two children that keep us busy.

How has Albion Cobblers been affected by Covid?

Over the years we have seen a sharp decline in shoe repairs - this is down to shoes being so affordable now and our 'throw-away' society.

When we reopened after the first lockdown I think a lot more people were trying to shop locally and help local businesses.

It has worked out okay for us for during the second lockdown because we can get on with the new shop.

What is the most rememberable job you have been asked to do?

I once was asked to engrave a large sword.

What achievements are you most proud of?

I would say the engraving side of the business. When we introduced it, we weren't expecting it to take off as it did in the shop and online, we are very grateful for the support we have been given.

What plans do you have for the future?

We are obviously looking forward to being in a bigger shop and we are going to be offering more leather repairs and gifts, trophies as well as more equestrian products.

Why Exmouth?

We love the nice community. I moved out here 10 years ago to live with my partner and never looked back.

What services are you still running in lockdown?

We are still operating our online store.

Visit the Albion Cobblers website [L] http://www.exmouthcobbler.co.uk/[L]HERE.[.L]

If you would like your business, organisation, club or charity to feature in the next UP CLOSE feature, email [email protected]