At the age of 31, former Newcastle Big Issue seller Ricky Gleeson had spent years being homeless, had racked up dozens of convictions, and had no qualifications to his name.
But after career advisors in the city took a chance on him, Ricky joined the Royal Navy and turned his life around. Now, after leaving the Forces after 13 years, the dad-of-two has opened a vintage sportswear shop on Newcastle's Clayton Street with the aim of supporting disadvantaged young Geordies.
The new shop called Sports Traider sells vintage sportswear and clothing from brands including Adidas, Nike and Ralph Lauren, as well as collectors trainers like Air Jordans. Shoppers can expect to find pre-loved and new men's, women's and children's clothing and sports equipment.
