WHEN Ally Hogg visited a cafe 15 years ago, little did he know he’d be running Southend’s first retro games and toy collectors shop from the premises.

But Mr Hogg, 38, a former King John School pupil, Thundersley, who is registered disabled, realised a dream by opening his shop the Retro Hunter in London Road, Leigh on Saturday.

The ex-project manager, who lives in Leigh and suffers from Ehlers-Danlos syndrome - a rare condition that affects connective tissue - told the Echo of his excitement to begin the new enterprise.

Mr Hogg said: “It has been three years in the making and I’m so pleased to finally have opened the shop - it really is a dream come true for me.

“I was so surprised but delighted to see so many people turn up on the opening day.”

He explained that he decided to stop working as a project manager in London to help him manage his symptoms.

He said: “The condition means I can get tired very easily.

“My shoulder can dislocate up to three times a day, symptoms also include heart palpitations - it’s a hidden disease and needs more public awareness.”

Among his wares, Mr Hogg’s shop sells vintage computer games consoles, arcade machines, and collectible toys like Transformers.