THE head of one of Worcester's largest employers has reaffirmed the company's committment to the city.

Alan Mucklow, Managing Director UK, Eire and National Distributors at Yamazaki Mazak, said the company had ambitious plans for the future.

Speaking on national manufacturing day, Mr Mucklow set out the company's vision for the future, which features further investment in machines and employment.

He said: "One of the things we are hugely proud of is our apprenticeship scheme - being able to take prospective engineers and teach them the different aspects of manufacturing.

Worcester News: VISIT: Tours of Mazak were givenVISIT: Tours of Mazak were given

"It isn't just manufacturing though, its CNC, design and servicing, so taking students from around the country and training them as service engineers."

Mr Mucklow was speaking as Mazak opened its doors to students and guests from around Worcester as part of national manufacturing day.

Groups from schools and colleges were given tours of the factory and the opportunity to find out about careers in manufacturing.

Mazak has been at its Worcester home since 1987 and employs more than 600 people.

The company, along with neighbouring Worcester Bosch, is one of the largest employers in the city.

Mr Mucklow reiterated the recent investment in new machinery and facilities in Worcester, saying the company remained committed to supporting jobs and industry in Worcester, particularly with a nationwide shortage of skiled CNC machine operators.

Worcester News: ICONIC: The restored Merlin Engine in operation at MazakICONIC: The restored Merlin Engine in operation at Mazak

He added: "When we recruit, it is always a challenge getting people with the right skills, which is why it is so important to get people through and teach them the skills.

"There is an engineering skills shortage in the UK, so it is important to encourage young people to visit our Worcester factory, one of the most advanced manufactured sites in the world, to show them that there are great careers and opportunities for them in manufacturing.”

The Mazak facility in Worcester builds machine tools and components for clients all around the world.

The event for national manufacturing day was designed to show students and potential employees to find out more about the range of careers available in the industry.

The event culminated with a restored Rolls-Royce Merlin engine being fired up for the crowds.

The engine, which powered the iconic Spitfire and Lancaster aircraft, was restored to working condition by a Mazak employee.