A SHOP owner who overcame his testicular cancer diagnosis has celebrated his successful first year at the helm of a menswear shop in Chippenham.

Aaron Gale, 32, took on Outfit78 in Emery Gate last year from his predecessor Peter Emms, who he worked for on and off growing up, and it has gone from strength to strength.

“We’re so pleased to have reached our first birthday here at Emery Gate,” the father-of-two said. “There are a lot of doom and gloom stories about the British high street at the moment but I think our success shows that there is still a place for shops like us that offer a variety of labels under one roof and a really personalised service that you don’t often see these days.

“This year has been hard work, but it has definitely been worth it. We have been blown away to the response from our customers, which we never expected.

“I was diagnosed with testicular cancer in May 2013, and what I went through was so eye-opening. It was a real defining moment.

“Owning a shop was always a dream for me but going through all that really gave me a new outlook on life.

“I just want to carry on the good work and continue to build upon this success.”

Mr Gale, who sells in-demand designer labels such as Lyle & Scott, Luke1977, Gym King and 11 Degrees, hopes to now build on his success by selling out-of-season stock online using a click and collect system and becoming the place to go for designer footwear in the town.

Nicola Milne, centre manager at Emery Gate, added: “We’re delighted that Outfit78 has not only survived but thrived in its first year.

“We pride ourselves in offering a home to a number of local independent brands and feedback tells us that this is a major attraction for our customers.

“We hope that this is the first of many years at Emery Gate for Aaron and the team.”