Eric Edward Crabtree
Eric Edward Crabtree (1913-1995) of Cresta Silks, Hepworths, Hardy Amies, Lotus Shoes and Debenhams
1913 October 31st. Born at Harrogate the son of Robert Ambrose Crabtree, Superintendent in Prudential Assurance Company.
1939 Residing at 9 Little Chester Street, City of Westminster, a Solicitor.
1952 Recognised the potential of Cresta Silks. Persuaded Howardsgate Trust Ltd to acquire a majority interest [1] and became managing director but retained an option to buy the shops cheaply.[2]
1954 On liquidation of the Howardsgate Trust, the shares in Cresta Silks were transferred to its managing director, Eric Crabtree[3]
1968 Held several roles in the textiles/clothing industry; was close personal friend of Cyril Lord[4]
1968 Advisory consultant to the Cyril Lord business; described as "one of the greatest merchandizers in the country"[5]
1970s Chairman of the Fashion Multiples Division of Debenhams
1973 Appointed chairman of Lotus Shoes[6]
1978 Retired from his direct management role in fashion at Debenhams but remained a director and chairman of Hardy Amies[7]
1995 August 30th. Died, of Eldridge house, Sturry, Canterbury.