PRINCESS Anne visited two long-standing yarn and weaving manufacturers, including one in the Bradford district.
Laxtons welcomed Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal to its spinning factory in Baildon on Tuesday.
She then visited the traditional, family-owned weaving mill Marton Mills in Pool-in-Wharfedale, Otley.
Founded in 1907, Laxtons, located at Sapper Jordan Rossi Park, Otley Road, today remains at the forefront of the specialist yarn industry under the directorship of fourth-generation owner, James Laxton.
Princess Anne was taken on a tour of the factory floor – following the journey of the wool fibre from bales of raw material through gilling, spinning, twisting – and assisted with one of the final stages of production, doffing balls of wool to a conveyor belt for labelling and packing.
Princess Anne, who is president of the UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT) switched on the firm’s newly-installed reeling machine, which promises to improve productivity and reduce the company’s energy consumption.
Mr Laxton said: “We’re very delighted to welcome Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal to visit the factory where she learned about the fibres we use.
“She went to see our processing from gilling, spinning and twisting the fancy yarns. She was also introduced to the brand-new machine that we installed two days ago, which introduces robotics to the factory.
“The Princess Royal was there to see the machine turned on for the first time and operate. We explained the benefits that it brings to the business.”
After the Baildon tour, Princess Anne visited Marton Mills, which is known for its stock-supported range of pure wool tartans, Shetland tweeds, and wool-blend fabrics.
During the visit, HRH was given a tour of the facility, where she gained insights into every stage of the manufacturing process, from yarn preparation to warping and weaving.
She witnessed first-hand the craftsmanship and dedication of Marton Mills’ workforce, many of whom have spent their lives in the textile industry.
One of the highlights of the visit was the presentation of a Service to Industry Award to chairman Duncan Watts, who has been working in the British textile industry for over 50 years.
Managing director Laura Watts said: “Duncan, my father has been an inspiration to us all at the mill.
“He paved the way for Marton Mills and has been the foundation of our success.
“We are thrilled that he received an award to recognise his outstanding contribution to the industry.”
Adam Mansell, CEO of UKFT, said: “We were truly honoured to introduce Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal to the team at Marton Mills.
“Her visit not only recognises the rich heritage and craftsmanship that defines our industry but also highlights the importance of British textile manufacturing on the global stage.”
