Fashion and tradition: how John Smedley is innovating in a tough market

In the final article in a series on high-end British manufacturing we look at a clothing brand that dates to the 18th century but is increasingly on-trend

Tina is wielding a large pair of scissors with authority, slicing with immense skill and precision.

With 38 years of experience, she is an important member of the 230-strong manufacturing team producing fine knitwear for the John Smedley brand. Using a chalk, a semi-circular guide and a sharp pair of scissors, she cuts necklines in the knitted garments ready for the final trim to be attached.

The brand’s site in the Peak District, Derbyshire, is the oldest continuously operating factory in the world, with a maze of buildings, one of which dates to 1784.