APPRENTICES aiming to become the next generation of fashion designers have launched their own clothing collection in Huddersfield.
Government minister Rosie Winterton visited the Textile Centre of Excellence at Deighton, to unveil the new H@TCH brand – standing for Handmade @ Textile Centre Huddersfield.
Ms Winterton, regional minister for Yorkshire, met the apprentices working in areas of fashion design and production. She saw cloth being manufactured at the textile centre’s workshop, garments being designed, patterns being cut and sewn and the new clothing ranges being modelled.
She met Stephen Gibson, who recently completed an apprenticeship in manufacturing textiles at the centre and is now employed producing cloth for the H@TCH range.
And the minister talked to students on the Manufacturing Sewn Products and Apparel Technician Certificate courses – including apprentices Caroline Smith, Bethany Dawson, Lauren Conner, Megan Butterfield and Katie Moran.
Ms Winterton said: “The H@TCH fashion range is a tribute to the creative talent of the apprentices based at the textile centre. It sends a clear message about the fact that we are at the forefront of this industry in Yorkshire.”
During her hour-long visit, the minister was accompanied by textile centre managing director Bill Macbeth, Huddersfield MP Barry Sheerman and Colne Valley MP Kali Mountford.
Mr Macbeth said: “The future for textiles and fashion in this country depends on producing cloth to the ultimate standard and designing and manufacturing top quality garments that are stylish and relevant to the market.
“Our students learn how to design, but they also develop the practical skills of manufacturing.”
Ms Winterton said: “Apprenticeships are being seen by employers and employees as a good way to get a skilled job and an interesting career. They also play a crucial role in ensuring our region is well-prepared for economic recovery when it comes.”
