Catherine’s visit was in order to learn more about the heritage, history and innovation of the industry, the technical processes involved and how vital the sector is to the UK economy. She also heard about how the industry is transforming to place emphasis on sustainable practices as well as how it is working with academic institutions to educate and upskill young people
One of the manufacturers she visited, A.W. Hainsworth’s textile mill in Leeds, had a special connection with her: is the company who bought her great-grandfather Noel Middleton’s business, William Lupton & Co, in 1958
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