Kate Middleton visited AW Hainsworth which held a royal warrant from the late Queen and bought a woollen manufacturer once owned by her father Michael Middleton’s relatives.
The company, based in Spring Valley Mills in Stanningley, made the scarlet tunics of the Guardsmen on duty during the coronations of both Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 and the King in May.
It supplies textiles to a range of clients, from fashion and homeware brands to the Armed Forces, produces woven felt for pianos and other musical instruments, and creates protective materials for emergency services and military personnel worldwide.
Here are the best pictures from the Royal visit in Leeds.
1. Royal visit
Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales has visited AW Hainsworth & Sons Ltd in Spring Valley Mills, Stanningley Photo: James Hardisty
2. Royal visit
The family-owned heritage textile mill was established in 1783 and manufactures British woollen cloth, high-performing technical textiles, and iconic fabrics Photo: James Hardisty
3. Royal visit
Members of the public came out to catch a glimpse of the Princess of Wales Photo: James Hardisty
4. Royal visit
Kate's great-great grandfather sold William Lupton & Co to AW Hainsworth Photo: James Hardisty
5. Royal visit
During her tour at AW Hainsworth, Kate learned about the manufacturing process of textiles – from yarn to fabric Photo: James Hardisty
6. Royal visit
Traditional machinery and techniques are still the backbone of the industry and the princess met a number of the company’s apprentices Photo: James Hardisty