President's Letter

I have enjoyed a very good year as your President, representing the Society at events in West Yorkshire, giving awards to students and supporting them in other ways. Over the last year we have built up closer links with the Fashion/Textiles Department at Huddersfield University and continue our close links with the Textile Institute.

In spite of the economic situation there have been some bright points, especially the first ‘Yorkshire Fashion Week’. We need to do all we can to maintain the momentum and keep a high profile. Many of us tend to forget that without ‘fashion’ there would be a much reduced textile industry.

The committee and I have tried to put together a varied programme which includes both local and international speakers. The events cover both up to the minute issues within our industry and also, a reminder of our history.

For our first lecture we have Mrs Elizabeth Peacock JP, DL, FRSA and Master of the Wool Livery Company, only the second female to hold this office in its 800 year history. She is trying during her year in office to strengthen the links between the Livery and West Yorkshire and has already had meetings with leaders of the industry.

After the success of the Dominic Dormeuil lecture last year, where we had record numbers in attendance, in February next year, we are combining with several organisations to bring International Textile and Fashion Designer, Zandra Rhodes to our region.

We continue to combine with the Bradford Textile Society and the Textile Institute in organising lectures and visits and I hope you will support these, and all our other lectures. We need your support if we are to maintain the impetus of your Society. If you have any suggestions for events, speakers or visits please let your committee know.

I would like to thank Bill Macbeth and the TCoE for their continued support.
I would like to officially welcome Adrian Smith as our new Honorary Secretary and thank Jack Yarker for his work in the past.
For those people who were not at the Annual dinner, I would like to congratulate Graham Brierley on his election as an Honorary Life Member of the Society.
Lastly, I would like to thank the officers and committee and past presidents for all their advice and assistance.

Yours Sincerely
Bill Skidmore