Celebrating the company's anniversary was a piece of cake

A family-run outdoor retailer celebrated its 80th birthday with a special pair of boots.

The hand-crafted walking boots were the icing on the cake for Ellis Brigham, which began life in 1933 in Manchester.

The company now has 23 shops across the country and is run by Bob and Ellis Brigham, sons of founder Fred Brigham.

The pair received the cake in the shape of a pair of walking boots to mark the anniversary.

A company spokesperson said: “Fred Brigham opened his Alpine Bootmakers shop in Manchester in 1933, selling climbing and trekking boots which featured a Brigham Plate – his own boot nail plate.

“His boots were soon in demand across the country but Fred spent as much time as he could abroad, sourcing specialist Alpine companies who would let him sell their products.”

From the original premises in Conran Street in Harpurhey, the business has expanded into the nationwide mountain sports chain and also began online retailing in 2000.

Fred’s grandsons Robert and Mark now also help run the firm.