SHOE ICON TO DESIGN RUGBY-INSPIRED RANGE

High-end shoe designer Christian Louboutin, beloved by celebrities and the wealthy, will design a new range inspired by openly gay rugby player Gareth Thomas.

Welsh-born Thomas, a former British Lions Captain, made history when he came out as gay in December 2009.

“Christian is working on a casual shoe range, with Gareth as the main inspiration. He’s really chuffed about it,” a source told the Sun newspaper.

According to the newspaper, Louboutin and Thomas are close friends and recently met to discuss the collection.

The range will be called “Alfie”, which is Thomas’ nickname.

Louboutin, known for his trademark shiny red soles, launched his line of women’s shoes in France in 1991 which can cost up to more than R21,000 a pair.

Plans are underway to make a movie about Thomas’ life, starring American actor Mickey Rourke.