THE DUKE of York cut a fine figure with employees when he visited an award winning Guiseley woollen mill this week.

HRH Prince Andrew enjoyed a tour around Abraham Moon & Sons mill on Tuesday in his capacity as the UK's special representative for international trade and investment.

He was shown at first hand the manufacturing processes of the business, which still employs 140 people and dates back to 1837 - the same year that Queen Victoria ascended to the throne.

The company's Managing Director John Walsh said his Royal guest seemed very interested in hearing the history of the company - which has previously achieved the Queen's Award for Export.

Mr Walsh, who is also Chairman of the British Wool Textile Export Corporation, said: "The Duke seemed extremely interested to hear our background and how we have met and overcome challenges by diversifying into furnishings and fashion accessories to complement our strength in the apparel textile sector."

Lorraine Ellison, Sector Specialist for UK Trade and Investment in Textiles, Fashion and Design, explained why the firm had been picked for the visit.

She said: "We felt Abraham Moon & Sons provided a great opportunity for the Duke of York to see how forward thinking the industry really is.

"The business is an excellent example of innovation and tradition and UK Trade and Investment is delighted to be working with them on their strategy to tackle new export markets."

The company, based at Netherfield Mills, Guiseley, produces material for many high-profile designers such as Hugo Boss, Ralph Lauren and Armani.