THE boss of Darwen’s Herbert Parkinson textile factory said its 70 years as a John Lewis Partner was 'a massive achievement' at a special open evening to celebrate the anniversary.

Hundreds of people turned out to the event to mark the milestone at its Harvest Mill, Monton Road factory.

They included John Lewis Executives, former managing directors, Herbert Parkinson partners, their family and friends, and dignitaries including the Mayor and Mayoress of Blackburn with Darwen Cllr Parwaiz Akhtar and his wife Shagufta,

They were treated to a special tour of the textile mill, which supplies over 34,000 cushions, 130,000 pillows and 30,000 duvets to John Lewis customers every year.

Speaking at the event, Stuart McDonald, head of branch at Herbert Parkinson, said: “It’s fantastic to see so many people turnout to help us celebrate 70 years as a John Lewis partner – what a massive achievement it is.

“The factory has been a vital part of the Partnership since 1953, and was first kept as a ‘secret’ to allow for experimental designs and techniques away from prying competitor’s eyes, but today we’re proud to be shouting about the amazing work we do.

"It really is a special place that champions British craftsmanship and somewhere I’ve called home for the past two decades.”

Bérangère Michel, John Lewis Partnerships’ Executive Director for Finance. said:“I wanted to be here today as 70 years really is a special achievement.

“Our customers buy John Lewis products for the quality and these are the people who work so hard to achieve that – they are a great bunch and I wanted to come and thank them all personally.”