Charles Clinkard (www.charlesclinkard.co.uk) In was established in 1924 with the opening of a shoe shop in Middlesbrough. From small beginnings The Clinkard Group has now grown to be the leading Independent Footwear Retailer in the North East and one of the largest Independents in the UK. The current Managing Director – Charles Clinkard – is the grandson of the founders and continues the values that have established the business. Charles Clinkard caters for everybody – men women children and even have a range in handbags. The choice is endless.