HRH The Princess Royal launches British Textile Week

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal said: “While 2020 has been a difficult year on a number of levels, the British textile industry has taken the opportunity to make use of new technology to promote itself to a far wider audience.

“The United Kingdom is renowned around the world for the quality and originality of its textiles – ranging from the world’s most sought-after cashmere to the finest worsted wool, luxurious tweeds and silks, and distinctive tartans – all of us know this.

"Less well known perhaps is that the UK is also home to extraordinary textile designers, colourists and technologists inspired but not constrained by our history. The UK is at the forefront of inventing new and more sustainable ways of spinning and dyeing fabric and produces innovative technical textiles and performance fabrics which are used across a wide range of sectors including medical, defence and aerospace.

“UK textile mills supply quality, sustainable textiles from the high street, right up to British and international designers, from Marks & Spencer to Paul Smith, not forgetting Vivienne Westwood and Stella McCartney, the tailors in Savile Row and the next generation of smaller tailors and brands. Their passion for using and supporting British textiles is truly inspiring.

“In my work as President of UKFT, I have also visited numerous textile mills throughout the country. Wherever I go, I am always impressed at the mills’ commitment to quality, sustainability and creating beautiful products as well as investing in stable employment for so many skilled workers.

“There is much to be proud of and celebrate and I am delighted to be able to launch the first British Textile Week and wish you all much success.”