That's fabulous, Rowland!
I never really looked into the shoe industry side of Northants! I'd completely forgotten about Churches shoes, and yes, they're superb!
I often bought 'seconds' when we were starting off, but nowadays, I don't need to smarten myself up as much as I did when I was working, (slob), but your part of the country is such a vibrant area, I really should know more!
One of my ancestors was a bootmaker in Guildford, and made riding boots etc for the gentry etc., so I understand. I've tried to find out what really went on, but information is sparse, and while a great story goes with it (remind me to tell the world one day), I'm facing a blank wall on that one!
A lot of my family came from Clophill, Beds, so we can start off all again...