Somerset-based shoemaker, Clarks has posted a growth in sales and profits following a difficult period in which the firm was sold twice.

According to Companies House, sales increased by six per cent to £978.3 million last year and pre-tax profits rose by £21 million to £61.3 million through its repositioning and recovery strategy.

Established in 1825, the firm is almost 200 years old and was founded by Cyrus and James Clark when they made a slipper from sheepskin off-cuts.

Last year Clarks had said it planned to return turnover to pre-Covid levels over the next three years. On the verge of financial collapse during the pandemic, the firm undertook a restructuring that cut its rent bill and cleared accrued arrears. A takeover by Singapore private equity firm Lion Rock led to Viva China Holdings taking the reins who own fashion brands and sports parks and taking full control in early 2023. Viva was founded by Li Ning, the gymnast entrepreneur.

Clarks employ circa 13,000 globally and still operates from its HQ in the village of Street, Somerset.

There are three stores across Cheltenham and Gloucester.