TAKE a pair of top class trainers, strip off the factory finish and get creative.

That's the idea of KickerBockerGlory, the recession-beating scheme dreamed up by a pair of creative Tunbridge Wells youngsters with a knack for spotting what works on the street.

And as the '90s obsession with designer labels gives way to more individual expression, customers are beginning to make tracks towards Vicky Hanlon and Natalie Pugh's new online customised shoe business.

"We have just finished some trainers for a boutique owner in America," said Vicky, 21, of Mount Pleasant Avenue. "He asked for bright neon colours and animal prints to echo the style of his shop. We have also produced a pair for a jeweller who wanted to promote new ways of displaying diamonds. People still want the best brands, but they like them to be individual, too."

The four months since they launched the business have proved a steep learning curve, admitted Natalie, of Redleaf Close, Tunbridge Wells, who, like Vicky, is a former St Gregory's RC School pupil.

"We realised we had to start with a range on display to show what we can do, so we have eight different one-off designs on our website which can be bought straightaway. But we are also happy to design to order, either using our own or the clients' shoes."

Vicky said: "Customisers are fairly new in England, but it is big business in America, and brands such as Nike and Puma keep a close eye on them as a way of spotting emerging trends. Americans are particularly keen on pictures and graphics – Marvel comic characters and Barack Obama faces are big just now – but over here, people prefer more abstract designs or street art."

With a growing reputation for their trainers for both adults and children, the pair are planning to start customising leather high heeled shoes.

"We've been asked to lead a school workshop, too, as a way of sparking children's interest in craft and design," said Vicky. "It is exciting, but we know we must always be one step ahead to keep our business growing."

The charge for customising footwear is usually £50, added to this is the cost of the trainers or shoe or the customer can provide their own.

For more information on KickerBockerGlory, contact Vicky Hanlon on 07983 377413 or visit www.this iskent.co.uk/links