73102-12THE Rockin' Emporium will live on after a customer stepped into the breach at the 11th hour.

Owner Brian McVeigh is closing the shop he started with his wife Alison almost 20 years ago. Having announced he was to shut in August, he thought the shop would close for good.

But Sally Jones, who has been a customer for several years, said she would take on any remaining stock when the Rockin' Empor-ium finally closes on Saturday.

By the end of November, Sally will open Sgt Pepper's named after the Emporium's costume hire section in Morley Street and carry on selling the retro and vintage gear that was the hallmark of Brian's shop.

Sally, who lives near Marlboro-ugh, has become a regular customer at the Rockin' Emporium with her sons Benj, 13, and Tom, 12.

She said: "I thought I'd love to do something like this and Brian rang me about it. It all fell into place, and we're all looking forward to it."

Sally, who has had a range of jobs including being a translator, cook, and an Avon Lady, has never worked in a shop, but is looking forward to the challenge.

She is already planning several new ideas, such as getting punk and "emo" (emotional) band T-shirts in, and will carry on Brian's practice of buying, selling and hiring out clothing.

Brian said he was delighted about how things have turned out. He would have sold off any remaining stock at markets or over the internet had the offer not come in.

He said: "I'm chuffed that Sally's come in to take it over, and that Swindon is still going to have all this.

"We've had so many punters asking 'what's happening and when are you closing?' and I'm so glad people won't have to go to Camden or Bristol to get these kinds of clothes."

The Rockin' Emporium started in August 1985 as Wear it Again Sam in William Street, and then moved to the Brunel Centre in the same shop as Rhapsody, before settling into Victoria Road in 1987.

Brian decided to close the shop because he wanted a change after 20 years and starts as a teaching assistant at Churchfields School next week.

The shop at the bottom of Victoria Road will be converted into a fast food takeaway, and the new Sgt Pepper's will move into the shop that was formerly The Flower Garden in Morley Street.

Brian is also hoping to hear from any ex-employees before his shop shuts on Saturday. Call him on 01793 542545.

Tom Morton