A former prisoner who served six years for gang-related crimes is preparing to launch his first retail venture in Oxfordshire.

Richard Potton, whose background includes stints as a barber and combat sports instructor, established Oxford Collectables in Banbury.

The business is scheduled to open its doors to the public this weekend.

Potton relocated to Oxford from Lewisham in South East London during 2016, an area move influenced by the Harry Potter film franchise.

During his time in the city, he worked as both an MMA and Muay Thai trainer while maintaining his passion for collecting.

His collection encompassed trading cards, autographs, film memorabilia and television-related items.

Attending Comic-Con conventions allowed him to encounter his future spouse while simultaneously networking with performers from the entertainment industry.

These professional relationships with actors and voice actors developed into a more substantial involvement with the convention circuit.

Potton eventually transitioned from attendee to vendor, operating trading stalls at various events.

Encouraged by positive reception at these gatherings, he founded the Oxford Card Show.

This enterprise merged elements traditionally found at celebrity conventions, card trading exhibitions and collectibles markets into a single offering.

The success of these events prompted consideration of permanent premises.

Banbury emerged as the preferred location due to its proximity to his residence following his release from incarceration.

A card show staged in the town on 25th July 2026 attracted considerable interest.

Rather than establishing merely another retail outlet selling trading card packs, the venture aims to serve as a gathering place for enthusiasts.

The establishment seeks to provide a space where individuals across different age groups can engage with the games they appreciate.

The social dimension of the project holds particular significance.

The proprietor intends for the venue to facilitate intergenerational interaction through gameplay while offering collectors opportunities to connect with others sharing comparable interests.

The enterprise has already announced plans for expansion into Aylesbury.

A Halloween-themed event is scheduled to take place at Stoke Mandeville Stadium on 31st October as part of this growth strategy.