ROSE Belinda, the North Yorkshire company which is the UK’s last remaining manufacturer of artificial flowers, has won a major order from Devon-based Rainbow Shoes.

From its studio in Tockwith, the £500,000-turnover company, which employs eight people, manufactures flowers and foliages from silk, organza, velvet and satin using antique tools, some of them dating back to the 18th century.

Its customers range from individual brides to world famous milliners and dress designers, theatres and television companies.

John Lee, director of Rose Belinda, said: “We had an immediate rapport with Rainbow’s Designer, Diane Hassal, who really appreciated the classic look and great quality we can achieve using our antique tools, and our ability to quickly turn her ideas into finished samples.

“Despite the credit crunch we are seeing sales for flowers increasing month by month, proving that niche markets for high-quality goods made in the UK are well positioned to weather the storm.”