Fareham MP Suella Braverman underlined the importance of the UK’s aviation industry as she officially launched construction of multi-million-pound new premises for Percival Aviation.

She put the first spade in the ground as works begin on a new 40,000sqft, purpose-built factory for the company, which specialises in the design, production and maintenance of aircraft interiors and equipment.

As reported in the Echo, the new site in Cartwright Drive, Segensworth, will double Percival's capacity and the company expects to create around 30 new jobs over the next five years for engineers and support staff.

Mrs Braverman said: “The UK has a hugely successful aviation industry and I'm delighted that Fareham is playing an important part in that, with our local aviation offering going from strength to strength."

Percival Aviation is going through a major growth plan to expand its presence both in the UK and overseas. Its customers around the world including British Airways, Emirates and easyJet.

The new factory at Segensworth should be completed by the end of the year.

Neil Percival, CEO at Percival Aviation, said: “This new site gives us the ability to significantly grow our business and support our aim of being the aviation industry’s supplier of choice, renowned for supplying high quality products at a competitive price. The aviation industry is thriving in this region and the UK as a whole, and we are proud to be playing our part in this success.”