JOHN Hooks knows about the latest fashions and trends in formal menswear, and has opened his first hire shop in March. I know what photographs well for weddings and what colours go well together for general suits, he said. Whether a suit is needed for

JOHN Hooks knows about the latest fashions and trends in formal menswear, and has opened his first hire shop in March.

"I know what photographs well for weddings and what colours go well together for general suits," he said. "Whether a suit is needed for a job interview, or the full top hat and tails for a wedding - I can sort it as well as everything in between."

John's Formal Hire opened its doors at 98 High Street last week and offers a complete range in formal menswear, in sizes to fit two-year-olds through to adults.

For six-and-a-half years he ran Robert Goddard's hire department in Wisbech, and decided to start his own business in the Fens.

He said: "As our society has become less formal, when special occasions do come along, people are now more likely to hire. Also, while teenagers are still growing, there isn't any point in spending money buying a tuxedo for their prom night.

"I'm backed by a national company, so I have try-on sizes in the shop, but I can order in special colours and designs.