AN AWARD-WINNING Stockton footwear retailer has just opened its 33rd branch as it continues to expand throughout the UK.

Family-run Charles Clinkard opened its newest branch in a grade II-listed High Street building in Shrewsbury after giving it a £160,000 makeover.

The property was built by MP Robert Ireland in the 16th century and is one of the oldest surviving timber- framed buildings in the town.

Latimer Hinks, the Darlingtonbased solicitors, completed the lease arrangements of the building having previously acted on behalf of the Clinkard Group when they acquired 12 Stead and Simpson stores in 2008.

The building was most recently a Dyers store and some of the former staff have now joined Clinkard’s, including branch manager Carole Croft.

Managing director Charles Clinkard said their expertise and local knowledge was a huge assett. He was delighted to open in Shrewsbury and said: “It is a busy and attractive town that provides excellent opportunities to grow our business.”

The store sells designer brands such as Gabor, Rieker, Skechers, Startrite, Converse and Lelli Kelly, among others.

Mr Clinkard said: “The company’s combination of high-quality footwear coupled with excellent customer service is continuing to prove a recipe for success.

“The Shrewsbury store has 12 staff, selling footwear for men, women and children, and we expect to have an annual turnover of about £800,000.”

The Clinkard Group was established by his grandparents, Charles and Eveline Clinkard, in 1924, and is now the UK’s leading independent footwear retailer with 33 stores.

Mr Clinkard is the third generation of his family to run the company, and was named Personality of the Year in the Footwear Industry Awards in 2013.

The company was also recently voted Multiple Retailer of the Year at the Footwear Industry Awards, and employs more than 550 staff.

Mr Clinkard said: “Our exclusive brand offering is continuing to prove a huge success as we spread around the country from our North East base, and I look forward to identifying further opportunities for expansion in the future.”