Chilwell based business G.H.Hurt & Son were honoured to receive the Lord-Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, Professor Veronica Pickering, who visited their Shawl Factory to meet the firms skilled staff and learn about a 400+ year history of lace knitting and artisan knitted lace techniques.

Prof. Pickering explored the local Nottingham history of knitted lace, which begins with Rev. William Lee, of Calverton, Nottinghamshire, who invented the first knitting machine in 1589. His innovation led to the development of handframe knitting machines, which became a significant local industry. By 1844, over 16,000 handframes were in use across Nottinghamshire. (Similar numbers could also to be found in Derbyshire and Leicestershire too).

G.H.Hurt & Son started in 1912 using these same framework knitting machines. During a 110+ year history, G.H.Hurt & Son has continued to innovate with lace knitting techniques and knitting technology. In 2024, their original and historic handframes work alongside various generations of modern powered machines too. All together showing the 400+ year history and development of Nottingham knitted lace.

During a tour of the Shawl Factory, Director Gillian Taylor was delighted to introduce Prof. Pickering to the firms long serving and skilled staff. Allowing Prof. Pickering to experience first-hand lace knitted shawls, scarves and baby shawls being made.