Countess of Wessex sees Skelmersdale shoemaker in action during West Lancs visit

Oct 18 2012 by Jamie McLoughlin, Ormskirk Advertiser

THE Countess of Wessex saw one of Skelmersdale’s most prolific manufacturers in action during her visit to West Lancs.

The Royal guest was invited to see the work that goes on at Hotter Comfort Concept, the country’s biggest shoe maker, which makes one third of all the footwear produced in Britain.

Her Royal Highness took part in a tour of the factory, met staff in the company’s UK and USA customer service centres and was introduced to the team behind Hotter’s current retail expansion.

Company founder and chief executive Stewart Houlgrave said: “We were delighted to welcome our Royal visitor and show her the passion and pride of our very British brand.

“The Countess was a wonderfully charming guest, who was genuinely interested in what we were doing and took time to speak with many of our staff, immediately putting them at their ease.

“The seven longest serving staff who were introduced to Her Royal Highness and they have already said that meeting her was the highlight of their combined 263 years service!”

At the end of the tour the Duchess was presented with a pair of Hotter shoes and a posy of flowers.