Mayor Angie Scott, of Prudhoe, recently toured the Essity tissue mill, the town's leading employer, for the first time.

On May 10, she met employees involved in the production of well-known toilet paper brands and NHS hand towels.

Mayor Scott was informed about local job opportunities and successful school outreach programmes, with ex-pupils of Prudhoe Community High School benefiting from Essity's esteemed apprenticeship scheme.

Following the tour, Scott and town clerk, Shirley Ann Gaut, witnessed the ongoing construction of Unifibres' new wastepaper recycling plant.

The four new buildings have been finished and are waiting for state-of-the-art equipment, expected to be installed in the next year, which will make Unifibres the UK's foremost wastepaper recycling plant, reducing energy and water use and the site's carbon footprint.

Councillor Scott added: "Essity is a key player in the UK’s paper product manufacturing sector, operating six manufacturing sites across the country – with Prudhoe Mill the largest.

"I had the opportunity to visit Essity, and what a great experience it was. I honestly expected to see something different, and I was so impressed with the science and technology. The machinery is magnificent – it’s so impressive to see."