James Sugden, Managing Director of Johnston’s of Elgin, a leading producer of cashmere accessories and knitwear, has been made an OBE (Officer of the Order of The British Empire) for his services to the textiles industry over a 40 year period.

Mr Sugden, 64, told Scottish regional newspaper The Press & Journal today that he was both surprised and delighted by the award. Mr Sugden is awarded his OBE in the UK’s New Year’s Honours list which is published today.

Now based at the company’s knitwear factory at Hawick in the Scottish Borders, Mr Sugden previously spent more than 20 years at Johnston’s headquarters at Elgin in North East Scotland. Mr Sugden told the newspaper this morning:  “This industry is not really about awards, it’s about patience and hard work. I have had huge support from so many people, they have always gone the extra mile for me and it means a great deal.”

“The manufacturing industry has always been the Cinderella of the economy, but there are signs that the government is taking seriously the contribution that it makes,” Mr Sugden added.

In 1986 Mr Sugden joined Johnstons as Sales Director and became Managing Director one year later. He continued to lead Johnstons until 2009 when he was succeeded by James Dracup. Since Mr Sugden joined the company, its global business has expanded significantly and it has become well-known internationally for its luxury cashmere and woollen items.

The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire is an order of chivalry established on 4 June 1917 by George V of the United Kingdom. The Order comprises five classes in civil and military divisions including Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).

Under the honours process, Honours are given to people from all walks of life and all sections of society who have made a difference to their community. There are several different types of award, each one recognising a different type of contribution.

The British honours system is one of the oldest in the world. It has evolved over 650 years as the country has found alternative means of recognising merit, gallantry and service. Honours lists are published twice a year at New Year and in mid-June on the date of The Queen's official birthday. Anyone can receive an award if they reach the required standard of merit or service, and honours lists contain a wide variety of people from different backgrounds.