A British fashion brand that helps an orphanage charity and is worn by celebrities has made its debut in London with the opening of a flagship in Spitalfields Market.

Gandys was established in 2012 by brothers Rob and Paul Forkan – who lost their philanthropist parents during in the 2004 Tsunami – to help launch their Orphans for Orphans charity and build a Kids Campus in Sri Lanka.

Initially making their name selling flip-flops made from natural materials with a woven rope style, the brothers have since expanded their range to include men‘s and women‘s clothing and accessories.

Before coming to London, Gandys only had one standalone store in Cornwall as well as concessions with various retailers.

They now plan to open a series of other stores in the south east.

“We realised that through building a brand we can make more of a difference,” Rob said.

Paul added: “We are looking to open more stores in the south east over the coming months the next being in Tunbridge Wells.”

At the launch event this week, the Forkan brothers announced plans to build their second Kids Campus in Malawi at the end of the year.

The launch was also attended by friends and family of the Forkan brothers, as well as celebrity guests like TV star Lydia Bright, Big Brother star Mohammed Mohammed and model Stefan-Pierre. 

Guests were also treated to an acoustic set from 2016 X-Factor contestant Niall Sexton, who busked around Australia with the Forkan brothers’ sister Rosie.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan also threw his support behind Gandys.

“Gandys have had such an inspiring journey so far and it is nothing short of amazing what they have achieved,” he said in a statement.

“Their enterprise was born out of grief and it has yielded a legacy that will likely outlast them. 

“Rob and Paul should be so proud of this milestone in their journey. I know that they will reach many milestones in the months and years to come and that people, home and abroad, will benefit from their dedication, vision and hard work”.

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