Fashion chain investment for entrepreneur

The move came as Sir Tom acquired the 10-store Cruise Fashion chain and its assets from administrator Deloitte for an undisclosed sum.

Van Mildert has stores in Harrogate, York, Darlington, Durham and the Metrocentre in Gateshead.

As part of the partnership, the Van Mildert team will run the buying functions for Cruise.

Sir Tom said: "Cruise is an iconic brand that requires investment for growth, it's a business I'm delighted to invest in. Combining this acquisition with a partnership with Van Mildert, an exceptional fashion business in my view, offers a strong platform from which to build both businesses."

Cruise has stores across the UK in Aberdeen, Belfast, Derby, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leicester and Newcastle.