The event was attended by local MP Clive Betts, who said he was pleased Polestar was making the effort to recruit locally, "becoming part of the community and integrating into Sheffield life".

"It's amazing that after a few short months we are here with a building," said chief executive Barry Hibbert. "It will be less than 12 months from us receiving planning permission to the plant producing its first commercial work, and that's testament to great team work."

"The response from Sheffield has been amazing. Everyone has rallied around to make the process smooth. My chairman, who's German, is impressed we could turn something around this quickly," Hibbert added.

Polestar's development partner Gazeley is currently constructing the foundations for the first three gravure presses. The press unwinds are due to be installed at the end of next month.

Barry Hibbert is pictured overlooking part of the main factory floor at the plant.

Story by Jo Francis