Carréducker Exhibition: Next Gen Shoemaking Talent

For the first time, visitors can get up close and personal with the winning creations of three award-winning artisans who clinched first, second, and third place in this new national competition celebrating hand skill and innovation in shoemaking. The exhibition not only displays each meticulously crafted pair of boots, but also reveals the design process, materials, and techniques that went into making them. First Prize: 'Misfits' Engineer Boots by Caleb Smyth The top honour was seized by Caleb Smyth, an aeronautical engineering student from Sheffield Hallam University. Caleb, who developed their skills as a blacksmith and Dr. Martens apprentice, created the bold ‘Misfits’ engineer-style boots—an embodiment of three years’ dedication to honing their craft. Caleb’s achievement comes with an intensive 18-day specialist training prize in pattern making, closing, and shoemaking. Second Prize: Red Heart Brogue Boots by Elizabeth (Lizzy) Dugmore Taking second place is Lizzy Dugmore, a rising star fresh from Capel Manor’s footwear foundation course. Lizzy’s striking red heart brogue boots stand out for their technical complexity: crafted with different right and left foot patterns, bespoke uppers, and tailored heel heights. With her personal journey inspiring her, Lizzy is committed to transforming orthopaedic footwear into a world of style and colour. Third Prize: Button Boots by Zachariah (Zach) Webb Third place was awarded to Zach Webb of Horace Batten Bootmakers for his elegant button boots, which merge traditional and contemporary detailing. Drawing on his upbringing in rural Ireland and Devon, Zach combines heritage techniques with modern insights, keeping the spirit of craftsmanship alive for a new generation.