Profiles

Paul Smith is one of the world's best known fashion designers and he grew up here in Nottingham.

He fell into designing almost by accident after meeting local arts students in a Nottingham pub, following a motorcycle accident.

Paul Smith (Photo by Mischa Richter)

They inspired him to begin designing his own clothes and by 1970 he had started trading after a Nottingham tailor allowed him to use a backroom.

His company is now valued at over £100 million.

His Nottingham shop, a grade II listed building, is based in Willoughby House on Low Pavement, Nottingham.

John Holmes has been chatting to Paul Smith on BBC Radio Nottingham's afternoon show. During the interview they talk about:

• How he began his career as a fashion designer
  
• How he came to open his first shop in the city
  
• The new shop in Nottingham
  
• Famous musicians Paul Smith supplies
  
• Meeting his wife and accepting a knighthood
  
• The business both worldwide and in Nottingham

To hear the interview, split into five parts, click on the links in the top right hand corner of the page.

You can listen to John Holmes on BBC Radio Nottingham every weekday afternoon between 2.00pm – 5.00pm on DAB digital radio, online and on 103.8FM and 95.5FM.