TWO creative Cirencester entrepreneurs, a mug designer and a shirtmaker, have been named ‘rockers’ of the Cotswolds as part of a campaign to show how cool the district is.

Homeware designer Gary Birks and bespoke shirtmaker Emma Willis are both delighted to have been named ‘rockers of the month’.

Rock the Cotswolds, launched in the summer of last year, showcases the creativity, venues, events, businesses and people of the district.

The campaign, which is supported by Prime Minister David Cameron, rugby world cup winner Phil Vickery and other celebrities, was created by local businessman Oli Christie, who was fed up with everyone thinking the Cotswolds was just a place where people went to retire.

Gary Birks, who lives in Cirencester, said it felt great to be added to such a widely-known campaign.

“I just wasn’t expecting it,” said Gary. “If I’m honest I have no idea how I got it. I love the Cotswolds. I think this campaign is making a real difference. My first opinion of the area was it’s sleepy but it’s not at all. There is such a wide mix of people.”

Gary has worked with Gordon Ramsey in the past and has had his products sold in Selfridges, Liberty’s in London and in several local stores.

Emma Willis, who was recognised in the Queen’s New Year Honours list at the start of 2015, creates bespoke shirts for HRH The Prince of Wales, the Duke of Beaufort and many local people.

She said it was great to be part of the Rock the Cotswolds campaign.

“Having been a singer in a band in London when I was young, it is funny to now be a Cotswold Rocker in the capacity of my long term career in men’s fashion,” said Emma, who lives in Edgeworth. “I really enjoy developing a business locally. Rock the Cotswolds is a great way to showcase and celebrate the thriving creativity and businesses here.”

Visit rockthecotswolds.com for more details.