Like most girls and many boys I love shoes and late last year I bought a pair of amazing hand-made black leather brogues that put a bounce in my step and a rather silly grin on my face. I’d seen them in the window of MeMeMe in Long Street, and ordered a pair to fit. They delight me. But were they enough, could I stop there? Of course not.

I found out that their creator was in Long Street, an artist and shoe man - we needed to meet.

Some research and few questions later, I had his name and knew that he operated from the African Women’s Trading Market, Long Street. I had to meet Diomande the Leather Man one pair was just not enough.

What was prevalent on arrival at their small downstairs shop was the accumulated skill and talent that Diomande and his brother have. Craftsmen for sure, their main focus is on shoes, handbags and belts. The array of colors and styles overwhelmed me, as did their charm and willingness to create something unique for me. Alice can keep her Wonderland, I had fallen into Shoe-Heaven.

I finally decided on a pair of punch-holed pumpkin colored brogues. My feet were measured about and across, my details taken and a promise of a three day turn about left me confident I’d be stepping out in style that weekend.

On collection of my most perfect Pumpkin Shoes - sigh - I took some pics and gushed with enthusiasm as I promised to spread the Diomande shoe-heaven word. I’m doing so right now. Before you next splash out on a pair of boots or shoes, do yourselves the great favor of visiting Diomande to discuss what he can offer you.

Their motto is “It starts with your footprint”. I’m encouraging you to support Local Craft and leave yours there … The experience and the shoes will mark your world.