AN extension scheme is creating up to 30 new jobs at Golborne meat processor B R and M Holmes. The new positions will be in hygiene management and food processing as the family-owned concern completes the commissioning of its new £1.5m plant at the turn of the year. A spokesman said investment was necessary for the firm to obtain further major supermarket business and to meet stringent new European legislation.

Modern meat cold storage and food processing areas have been created by building beside the existing plant.

The firm produces a full range of frozen meat products under the Holmes Farm label and others under supermarket household brand names.

A burger-making facility has been incorporated for the first time.

Managing director Barry Holmes said: "We have already begun strengthening our senior management team and there will be between 20-30 jobs created in production as the new section of the factory comes on stream at the end of the year."

The company incorporates a substantial sausage-making business and is one of the few producers of pre-packed minced beef with onion, marketed as Mince 'n' Onion.

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