HRH The Duke of Gloucester visited Purina's Wisbech factory last week.

It follows the company's recent announcement that the site is set to receive a £150million investment. 

The Duke met Purina employees and local dignitaries including the High Sheriff of Cambridgeshire Mr David Way and chair of Cambridgeshire County Council, Councillor Sebastian Kindersley, on September 26. 

He also met with chair of Fenland District Council, Councillor Nick Meekins and the Mayor of Wisbech Councillor Sidney Imafidon. 

He was given a tour of the factory to view the production lines, before unveiling a plaque to mark his visit. 

Located on Cromwell Road, Purina produces more than a billion wet pet food meals a year and has begun a multi-million pound upgrade which will continue into 2025. 

The factory employs more than 600 people, 85 per cent of whom live within a 20-mile radius.

As part of the investment, Purina has expanded the factory team, recruiting 40 members of staff.

Jez McInerney, Purina’s Wisbech Factory Manager, said: “Pets are at the heart of everything we do, so of course we gathered some furry friends to welcome the Duke of Gloucester for his grand tour on Thursday.

“We’re very proud of our base in Wisbech, and with this investment, we look forward to many more decades of making great products that the nation’s pets love, all while being an outstanding employer, supporting a thriving local community and minimising our impact on the environment.”