Businessman’s joy as member of Royal family officially opens his new venture

A BRADFORD businessman has told of his joy after a member of the Royal family officially opened his new venture.

The Duke of Gloucester, Prince Richard – who is Queen Elizabeth II’s cousin and a full-time working member of the Royal family – arrived in a helicopter at Bradford Grammar School earlier today.

He then went on to officially launch the new IK School of Fine Tailoring, based at IK Collections on Westgate in Bradford city centre.

The Duke unveiled a plaque to mark the official opening of the IK School of Fine Tailoring (Image: Lorne Campbell)

Established by IK owner Imran Khan, the school offers a 12-week programme of free tailoring lessons.

It covers sewing skills, pattern cutting, measurement taking – and much more.

Speaking of the Royal visit, Imran told the Telegraph & Argus: “It was amazing.

“We had a lovely time with the Duke today – I’d like to say a huge thank you to him.

“I’m delighted he officially opened the new IK School of Fine Tailoring.

The Duke cutting the ribbon to officially open the new school (Image: Lorne Campbell)

“He was very impressed with the school and the building it’s in.”

Imran added: “I’ve been working on making the IK School of Fine Tailoring a reality for the last two years.

“More than 200 people have signed up for it already, which I’m thrilled about.

“I want to put something back into the community and empower people, helping to teach them new skills and give them new opportunities.”

Imran gave special thanks to the Bradford 2025 team for providing a grant for the IK School of Fine Tailoring, and Deputy Lieutenant Kevin Sharp for the part he played in making the Royal visit possible.

The Duke was impressed with the school and the building it is in (Image: Lorne Campbell)

He also thanked everyone who turned out for the Royal visit.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the IK School of Fine Tailoring can call IK Collections on 07525758025.

Saffora Uddin, who works at IK Collections, added: “It’s been a wonderful day.

“The Duke showed a lot of interest in the school and the people it is helping.”

The Duke showed a lot of interest in the new school (Image: Lorne Campbell)

In another visit in Bradford, the Duke learned more about a new orthopaedic care centre planned for Kingfisher House on Filey Street.

Proposals for the new centre were given the go-ahead in February this year.

Standard Health Group, the organisation behind the plans, said the work would be a “transformative step in addressing the demand for enhanced medical facilities” in the city.

The Duke regularly attends national and international events in support of the King and his duties as head of state.

He also carries out extensive public duties and engagements every year to reflect his own interests and charities.