Couple on starting grid to see new economic driving force for region
DOZENS OF spectators tried to catch a glimpse of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as they arrived to open South Yorkshire’s “supercar” factory.
Around 100 people were outside the plant near Catcliffe, where the Advanced Manufacturing Park is located, to see William and Kate formally open the research facility of the Formula One constructor, McLaren.
The Royal couple were greeted by the Lord Lieutenant, Andrew Coombe, and, in a nod to the region’s traditional manufacturing expertise, they met Sheffield’s Master Cutler, Nicholas Cragg, among other dignitaries.
The city region mayor, Barnsley MP Dan Jarvis, was also on hand.
Inside the factory, the Duke was invited by employee Ruth Gawber to press a button to start the cutting machine.
He and the Duchess also spoke to the firm’s ambassadors in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics – the so-called STEM subjects – about the work they are doing to encourage schoolchildren to take up related careers.
Partners in the McLaren project included the Sheffield and Rotherham councils and Sheffield University, and Mr Jarvis said: “Our region is world-leading in advanced manufacturing and engineering.
“Investments from companies such as Siemens, Rolls Royce and Boeing are testament to our growing international reputation for excellence.
“So it’s great to see McLaren also opening here, demonstrating further confidence in our strong manufacturing heritage.”