Miguel de Almeida, owner of Marcus De footwear, brought his craftsmanship to the home of the Leicester Tigers for Saturday’s home game.

As well as enjoying matchday at Mattioli Woods Welford Road as Tigers remained top of the league table with victory over Worcester Warriors, Miguel hosted a ‘Meet the Maker’ display of the Marcus De range in the Champions Club hospitality lounge.

Talking about the inspiration behind his business, Miguel said: “I studied Shoe Design and Master Shoemaking at university so in 2013, and after many years in the coffee industry, I decided it was finally the right time to start Marcus De.

“Marcus in my middle name and the name I inherited from my grandfather, the original ‘Marcus de Almeida’ whose style and elegance have always influenced me and whose words: “Good Shoes Take You Good Places” are the foundation of our brand.

“Our shoes are made using the highest quality materials for a superior shape and fit. All Marcus De Shoes are handmade in England.

“All of our packaging, boxes, shoe bags and even our laces are handmade in England using recycled materials. We are committed to sustainability and minimising our impact on the environment.”

Marcus De shoes, including the Tigers Icon Boot, are now available to purchase in the Leicester Tigers Club shop and online.

Designed in London and worn all over the world, Marcus De’s re-interpreted classics are handcrafted by artisans and master shoemakers in England.

“The Tigers Icon Boot is our modern twist on a classic 1960s ‘Playboy’ style made famous by the likes of Steve McQueen and Paul Newman,” added Miguel, “a hybrid combination of a shoe on a sneaker sole. Smart casual with the comfort of a sneaker.”

Visit the website www.marcus-de.com.