Bournemouth model to walk Milan and New York Fashion Week

Richard Cronin, 44, began modelling three years ago after he was scouted by an agency while on his way to a meeting in London.

He has walked in London Fashion Week for three years and designers are now eyeing him up for Milan and New York fashion weeks.

He said: “I walked for four designers this year but once you’ve done it once, it becomes far less daunting and you really enjoy it.

“It’s very hectic during the day backstage because you’re having to do a load of clothing changes and then come straight back out.

“So, it’s very draining but that’s because you’re going through the emotions and excitement of it all.”

“You thrive on the adrenaline of it.”

Despite his speedy success, modelling remains a part time hobby for Richard while he works as group chief commercial officer in a data company.

“I don’t even consider myself a model to be honest, because my first and foremost thing is business.

“I see myself as a businessperson as opposed to a model, that’s really where my passion lies.

“Although it’s fun to do modelling as an extra sideline, I’ll always be a businessman.”

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Alongside luxury clothing and runways for suit tailoring companies, Richard has been involved in modelling for tool companies including B&Q.

He continues to work his modelling around his day job through annual leave and days off.

“I think the very first shoot that I did, it was quite daunting because I didn't know what to expect.

“But I have to say that everybody in the modelling community is really friendly, it's not at all like the perception that I would have and maybe a lot of other people have about modelling.”

Richard was asked to walk again for Perry Jones II in New York Fashion Week this year but unfortunately had to decline due to his day job commitments.

However, he has since been invited to appear at both Milan and New York fashion weeks next year.