The founders of the popular Herdy brand have been granted the Freedom of the City of London in recognition of their championing of the Herdwick breed.
Spencer and Diane Hannah have also been inducted into the Worshipful Company of Woolmen.
Spencer said: “We are extremely proud to have been recognised by the historic and ancient city guilds.
“It has been a privilege of ours to work closely with Lake District fell farmers over the last 15 years, helping to promote the Herdwick. By becoming Woolmen, our ambition is not only to continue championing the Herdwick and its birthplace, The Lake District, but to also help promote British wool to a global audience.”
Diane and Spencer were granted the freedom to the city of London at The Guild Hall followed by the official Clothing Ceremony which took place at The Cutlers Hall in Sheffield last month.
Master Elect and Chair of the Charity, Peter Hullah, said: “Herdy’s smiling face has helped bring national attention to the Herdwick breed. We are delighted that Spencer and Diane have joined us as Woolmen and we look forward to Herdy making a unique contribution to our Livery.
“They continue to focus on raising awareness through their iconic brand, whilst increasing the value of Herdwick wool through the sale of Herdysleep mattresses.”
Diane said: “The Herdysleep mattress contains Herdwick wool because it’s a superb body temperature regulator. We source our Herdwick wool at fair trade rates from our co-operative of Lake District farmers. When people buy a Herdysleep mattress they can be reassured that they are helping to support our upland fell farming community.”
The demand for and value of Herdwick wool is on a high. British Wool (formerly The Wool Board) have recognised the Herdy brand’s contribution towards this.
CEO Andrew Hogley said “British Wool has seen strong demand for Herdwick wool over recent months with auction prices this season well above £1 per kilo. Higher auction prices will in turn lead to better returns for the farmers who sell their Herdwick wool through British Wool’s collective marketing scheme.
Demand for Herdwick wool has been driven by a number of manufacturers, predominantly in the carpet and mattress sectors. The industry has also benefitted from the greater awareness and visibility of the iconic Herdwick breed. Brands such as Herdy have made an important contribution to building this consumer awareness.”
Herdy has also launched a collaboration with leading Cumbrian accountants Armstrong Watson. Two specially created Herdy accountant characters have been adopted into the Armstrong Watson flock and will help mark the 155th anniversary of the firm.
Spencer said: “During lockdown we spent much of our time utilising our digital world to create Herdy characters for individuals, groups and communities across the country. From emergency services and key workers through to everyday people, it helped to raise a smile during a tough time. The idea eventually manifested into Herdy Heroes and went on to raise £30,000 for charities through the sale of a limited edition tea towel. We’ve never stopped ‘herdyfying’ people since!”
