A NORTH-EAST footwear manufacturer has announced record sales for the third year in succession.

Outdoor footwear maker Brasher said its 2010 sales are up 14 per cent year-on-year, partly helped by the severe weather in the past three months.

The Sunderland firm has been bolstered by new product launches, including a lightweight leather walking boot, which has exceeded sales forecasts, the introduction of a crampon-compatible leather mountain boot and multi-activity shoes.

Brasher has seen sales grow by 32 per cent over the past three years, and described its order book for the spring and summer as buoyant.

Managing director Andy Loeber said: “Growth has been bolstered by a number of different factors, from innovative and forward-thinking product development, mixed with strong, consumerfocused marketing, through to first-class customer service and delivery.

“We’ve also worked closely with both our national and independent retailers throughout the year, to ensure we provide instore points of sale which stand out from the crowd and helps to reach both new and existing customers.”