I was comforted to discover that a company called The Lancashire Sock Manufacturing Company exist in a mill in Bacup. I’m not saying this in a patronising, sneering kind of way – I’m always pleased to discover traditional, long established manufacturing companies in old mills. There’s also the no-nonsense ‘does what it says on the tin’ Northern name, a fantastic survivor in an age of meaningless company branding.

The company manufactures latex foam and crumb rubber coated felts and textiles which are used in applications such as footwear insoles and carpet underlay. They also manufacture and supply synthetic chamois and advanced heat reflective ironing board cover fabrics.

The company’s factory is Britannia mill, which it has occupied since 1926, although there has been a mill on the site since the 1790’s. A full history can be found on the company website here.