COLCHESTER is being established as a fashion centre by a man who has tailored his business to offer a special service.

Turners of Colchester is the only shop in the UK to offer bespoke shirts by Turnbull & Asser, other than their own London shop. It is also one of six retailers in the country selected by Armani Collezioni to offer a made to measure service for their Italian-made suits.

These achievements were demonstrated when representatives from both renowned fashion labels came to the Colchester shop to offer the made to measure service in person for specially-invited customers.

Stefano Mallamace, responsible for Armani Collezioni in northern Europe, said "Colchester offers ones of the best services for Armani outside London." It is also a lucrative one, with the average made to measure suit costing £1,000.

Andrew Courtney, bespoke manager with Turnbull & Asser, said that Turners was the only shop to offer this special service in the UK outside the Jermyn Street shop, "although we do take the service to America." The shirts are the epitome of English fashion - worn by everyone from Sir Winston Churchill to the Prince of Wales.

Both Mr Mallamace and Mr Courntey attributed the sucess of their collaboration with Turners to the experience and service offered by Duncan Turner, who usually offers the made to measure service personally.

The floorspace of his Crouch Street shop has trebled since Mr Turner established the business in 1994. It has recently expanded into the adjoining shop to accommodate it's women's fashion shop. Mr Turner said that in the two weeks since Turner Woman opened, turnover had already increased by 30 per cent.

"We have customers coming from all over the country, and France, New York and Dubai for the made to measure service," said Mr Turner, dressed in one of the Armani suits which is his trademark look.

He said that the majority of customers bought off-the peg designer labels for which the business is best known. They come to Colchester for top fashion brands, whether they are looking for Italian elegance or classic English style.