A TEXTILE company’s 250th anniversary has been given the royal seal of approval.

The Princess Royal, who is president of the UK Fashion and Textile Association, was given a tour of Joshua Ellis’s woollen mill, Batley Carr Mills, during a visit, where she met staff.

Joshua Ellis, which is owned by Bradford-based SIL Holdings, was set up in 1767 originally as a clothiers, before opening up to woollen textile manufacturing in the late 18th century.

Kristie Reeves, Joshua Ellis’ design director, said: “We were thrilled that the Princess Royal was able to join us for our 250th anniversary celebrations.”

SIL Holdings group also includes Bradford weaving brands William Halstead, John Foster and Charles Clayton.