A COMPANY with more than 100 years history in Trafford Park welcomed chancellor George Osborne and the leader of Trafford Council, Cllr Matt Colledge, on Monday.

Lucchini UK is the only dedicated wheel manufacturing plant in the country, with 190 employees and a £24m turnover.

The company is hoping to be involved in the proposed £32.7bn high speed rail link betwen London and Manchester.

The Government announced details of the northern route on Monday - they include an interchange at Davenport Green, and from there the line will go though a 7.5 mile tunnel to Ardwick.

Cllr Colledge said: “I was delighted to welcome Mr Osborne to Trafford and to accompany him to Lucchini UK, one of Trafford Park’s most unique and successful enterprises.

“This visit was especially timely as we celebrate plans for high speed rail in Greater Manchester, a move that will have a huge impact on our region, creating jobs and boosting the economy. These are exciting times for Trafford and the wider Greater Manchester region and I look forward to seeing this project moving forward.”

Chris Fawdry, managing director of Lucchini UK, said: “This was a great opportunity to show George Osborne that there are world-class manufacturing facilities and a skilled and committed workforce in Greater Manchester.

“This project is essential to upgrade the inadequate transport infrastructure in the UK. The announcement means real growth in the economy and lots of jobs – great news that we should all welcome.”