Hi,
Also not very local, but there's a great shop in Northampton (and also in Matlock Bath) called 'the identity store'. They have a website, but they don't do online shopping, but you can order a mail order catalogue though which is excellent. They do everything - leather, rivets, poppers, buckles Etc. loads of tools and books. The shop is well worth a visit for anyone in the area.
http://www.theidentitystore.co.uk/store/index.htm
I started with an excellent case making book that covers pouches, cases and sheaths. it shows you how to make the patterns, form the leather, stitch it and attach the hardware - it really is good, I'll dig out the name when I get home and post it here.
For my 2p worth, I would reconmend you get hold of this book (either from the identity store or somewhere else maybe), have a good read through it then work out what you need and then shell out on some materials and tools.