Perfection of fine bone china led to royal commissions

POTTERY has been manufactured at Spode's Church Street site since around 1750, more than 10 years before Josiah Spode established his business in 1767.

The success of the venture meant Josiah was able to buy the Church Street factory from his former employer, William Banks.

In the late 18th century Josiah produced what has been described as the single most significant development in the history of his industry – the perfection of the formula for fine bone china.

The Prince of Wales visited the factory in 1806 and, impressed by what he saw, asked Spode to produce the banqueting service for his coronation as George IV.

The company has held Royal Warrants ever since, and has also received commissions from the East India Company, Charles Dickens and the Shah of Persia.

In 1867 the company's official trade name was changed to WT Copeland and Sons, only reverting back to Spode in 1970.

Spode is renowned for its blue and white Willow pattern, developed by the original Josiah Spode from a pattern called Mandarin in about 1790.