The North West's largest independent sewing machine specialists.
Hobkirk's have been in the sewing machine business for over 100 years, with retail outlets within the UK at Blackburn and Bury, and as a result can boast first class knowledge and service in the sewing machine industry.

Founded in 1903 by Mr William Hobkirk, Wm Hobkirk & Son began trading from Salford, Blackburn (Not Manchester). William was joined by his son Edgar Hobkirk then in the 60's by Edgar's son and William's grandson Peter Hobkirk.

The company then expanded having another retail shop on Darwen Street on the opposite side of Blackburn's town centre which to this day is the company's head office.

During the 70's and 80's it was Peter Hobkirk who expanded the chain of domestic shops into Blackpool, Accrington, Preston, Burnley, Bury and Rochdale.

The 1980s also saw the introduction of industrial sewing machines to the companies already vast range of sewing products, along with the appointment of Mr Brian Buttress as Industrial Technical Director.

2001 saw the opening of 'Hobby's Art and Craft Store' which has gone from strength to strength and more recently has doubled in size to expand the range of products on offer.

Mark Hobkirk joined the company in 1993 and in June of 2005 became Sales Director, with Peter Hobkirk as Company Chairman.

The company continues to trade from their head office on Darwen Street, Blackburn with a satellite branch still operating from Bury.

Financial advice is not just about protection, retirement planning, investments, saving tax, etc…it’s also about providing a quality ongoing service.

Ashton Hoyle Independent Financial Advisers provides bespoke investment management, tax saving and financial planning advice and solutions for private and corporate clients.

Our relationship with clients is very close and conscientious, allowing us to be the first choice for entrepreneurs, business owners and high net worth individuals in Lancashire. Via Ashton Hoyle Trustees Ltd, we also offer bespoke pension planning solutions via the Ashton Hoyle SIPP including the opportunity to invest in, or purchase, commercial property. The success of the firm has recently been recognised at the annual Chamber of Commerce President’s Awards.