The multi million pound project, part funded by Defra, the EU and in partnership with East Midlands Pork Producers, is the culmination of 18 month's work that will ensure the company's Spalding facility is truly 'world class'.

Seamus Rooney, Managing Director Dalehead Foods explains; "The refurbishment of our Spalding facility reaffirms Dalehead Foods' commitment to invest in the British Pork industry.

"The site now has a new colleague amenity building, upgraded changing areas, as well as a high-tech lorry wash, a state of the art carcass grading system and a new 500 sq metre pre chill extension which will help reduce 'drip-loss', directly benefiting farmers who are part of the EMPP.

"The upgrade should also enable us to secure US Department of Agriculture approval which in the long run could boost pork exports to the US and ultimately improve the economic outlook for British pig farmers."

Commenting on the project, David Heath, Minster of State for Agriculture and Food added; "Defra has invested 32.4million in this innovative project, which will really help to boost the economy and promote British pork on a global stage.

"It's encouraging to hear that the improvements the East Midland Pork Producers have made to both the abattoir and processing plant will now enable them to export to America and beyond. I'm keen to see that Government supports more projects like this so we can help create the jobs and economic growth that our rural areas so desperately need."

The new facilities were officially opened by James White from the EMPP with representatives from Defra, Dalehead Foods and Waitrose who unveiled a plaque marking the completion of the 18 month project.