Wakefield firm that makes Star Wars, Spider Man and Disney shoes recognised in New Year Honours list

William Lamb Group, based at Stanley, makes licensed shoes based on brands like Spider Man, Star Wars, Frozen and Peppa Pig.

It was founded in 1887, making wooden clogs for the factory and mineworkers in West Yorkshire, moving into football and rugby boots in the 1950s, and shoes for children in the 1980s.

Stuart Lamb, the company’s chairman who has received the MBE, began working at the firm that his grandfather established aged 18 in 1966.

Stuart said: “The honour was most unexpected. In the current environment my contribution seems small compared to people who put themselves in harms way to take care of us all. I was shocked to be told I was considered.

“It means a lot to the business to recognise the tremendously committed and creative team all over the world.”

The Wakefield-founded company is still based in the city.

Stuart said: “Everything we sell is designed and developed in our Wakefield office.”

He is a supporter of the Wakefield Community Awareness Project and Christians Against Poverty.

The firm is also involved with the Pattenmakers Charitable Foundation, which creates shoes for people with walking abnormalities or foot injuries, including soldiers who have been injured in combat.